#ticklish!itto

Ah, Fontaine: the region known for its impressive machinery, beautiful ocean, and strict legal system. Some find the laws ridiculous: one of them forbids people from unleashing any flying objects within three months of visiting or something like that, which is so oddly specific it got Itto in trouble.

Unfortunately for him, that wasn’t the only law he broke. His attire was deemed inappropriate, Ushi was considered an exotic animal and therefore illegal to bring without a permit or something (he’s fine, don’t worry), he accidentally vandalized and destroyed property, and got into a fight with a citizen which lead to another fight with an officer, which lead to resisting arrest. He was also charged with disturbing the peace, and was really angry about his other charges as he argued. Wriothesley was almost impressed at the sheer speed in which the oni racked up all that chaos.

Kamisato Ayato and his sister were on a business trip to Fontaine, see. Itto had practically begged to come with them, and Ayato just couldn’t say no to that puppy-eyed face. The Arataki Gang didn’t come along, though, since that would be too many people. Most of them stayed behind to help Granny Oni, so Shinobu could join the trip. She wanted to get to know Ayaka more, but knew she’d have to keep her boss out of trouble as well…

…which she sadly failed to do since Itto appeared to be a magnet for chaos. After his assault charges, he was sent to trial, which was exhausting to go through. The Oratrice Mechanique D’Analyse Cardinale found him guilty of his crimes. Itto felt really overwhelmed and stresed by such a dramatic and public trial, and worried sick over how long his sentence would be. Before being sent to the Fortress of Meropide to atone, he had emotional goodbyes with his friends, and especially with Ayato.

“You’ll get through this,” he’d said to Itto. “We’ll make sure of it. Don’t worry.” But it was easier said than done, and Itto had only spent a bit more than a week there before having an overstimulated meltdown caused by all the built-up stress. Wriothesley decided enough was enough and brought the oni into his office to calm him down. He knew better than to leave a strong and overwhelmed oni alone in an unfamiliar place such as the Fortress; especially one as emotionally unstable as this one.

Over the week, Wriothesley had tried to make accommodations suitable for Itto, such as letting him swap any lunchbox with beans in to one without for free and giving him an extra pillow for his cell, but the overall environment and uncertainty still lead him to a violent meltdown. Other inmates were mean, his cell smelt weird, the blanket felt scratchy, his new uniform was uncomfortable, he missed his friends; all the little things built up over time just to break him. So, Wriothesley thought a smaller, more controlled area like his office would be the perfect place for Itto to de-stress.

He figured Itto would feel safe there since they knew each other by now, and he hoped the oni would trust him enough to relax. But to say Itto was pissed was an understatement, and also not entirely accurate. He angrily vented his frustrations about wanting to go home, how Fontaine’s laws can kiss his ass, and how he felt lonely and confused. Wriothesley sipped some tea, letting the oni vent and pace around the office, occassionally nodding and responding to show he was listening.

“I just-! I-… I wanna go home…” he said eventually, his anger turning into sadness as his rage faded. Wriothesley sighed slightly and got up from his seat to offer Itto a hug, which wasn’t something he usually did. However, the duke figured Itto needed one by now and liked his vibe, so he didn’t mind. Perhaps they could officially become friends.

Itto burst into tears once he accepted the hug, sniffling and sobbing in the man’s arms. On one hand he felt ashamed to cry so much with someone that wasn’t Ayato, but on the other hand he’d trust Wriothesley with his life if he needed to. Though he kept complaining, gradually calming down from his distress as the two hugged tight. He was always quick to trust people like that, often befriending them earlier than they did him. Most of the time it was awkward, but this time it seemed reciprocated.

Once Itto had stopped sobbing and gotten quieter, Wriothesley spoke up again. “Listen, I can tell you’re not a bad guy. Cus if you were, you wouldn’t feel even an ounce of remorse.” he said.

“I don’t mean to break laws all the time…” Itto mumbled, sniffling while resting his chin on the other’s shoulder.

“Even so, I can’t free you yet even if I wanted to. That’d be an illegal abuse of power, and it’d hurt the trust people have in our law enforcement.”

“Your law enforcement is stupid.” Itto huffed without missing a beat, making Wriothesley chuckle as he patted the other’s back.

“Pff… That may very well be the case. Our system is different to that of Inazuma.”

“Mm…” Itto sniffled and pulled away, wiping his eyes. “I know, but still. It’s stupid… I hate it.”

“Mhm. Now, unfortuantely I can’t tell you when you’ll be freed exactly. Despite your crimes, you’ll be here for less than a year total.”

“Why? I mean, why would it not be more? I thought Fontaine was strict like that.” Itto seemed much calmer now, thankfully…

“It is, but right now we’re having some complications with your cases. It would seem your travel companions want you out as quick as possible, and they’re working on bail negotiations with Monsieur Neuvillette as we speak.” Wriothesley went over to his desk as he spoke, sitting back down to sip his tea.

“Wha- Really?! Why didn’t you just say so??” Bro was positively flabbergasted to say the least, getting excited at the idea of an early release. Shinobu would usually bail him out in Inazuma, but maybe he’d have to rely on Ayato this time…

“I tried to, but you were in the middle of a rant, so it would’ve been rude of me to interrupt.” Wriothesley smirked a little, somewhat amused by the other’s reaction despite everything.

“Oh, ha ha, very funny. Hmph…” Itto sulked, crossing his arms with a glare on his face. Though it didn’t last long since he couldn’t help but smirk as well.

“Haha, I’m serious~! You would’ve only gotten angrier if I had tried to butt in.”

Itto chuckled and rolled his eyes in respone, not wanting to admit the other was right.

“Heh, now come on, take a seat so we can discuss all this properly.”

“Ah, fine, whatever.” Itto huffed and sat down with the man, arms still crossed stubbornly.

Since Itto was mostly calmed, Wriothesley decided to give him a thorough explanation of why he’s in jail and what he should expect from it. He tried his best to answer any questions the oni had, hoping to completely calm his worries and help him understand. None of Itto’s crimes were intentionally harmful or pre-meditated, he’s just very good at getting into trouble.

“Now, are you still worried about how long your sentence will be?”

“Yeah… Didn’t you say some people stay here forever? What’s up with that? I don’t wannaaaa…!” Itto flopped back on his chair like a disgruntled teenager, which made Wriothesley chuckle.

“Pfft, heheh, you don’t have to, y’know. That part is usually optional.”

“Hey! It’s not funny!”

Wriothesley cleared his throat. “Mph- s-sorry, I don’t mean to laugh. It’s been ages since someone with your mannerisms talked to me so casually. It’s refreshing.

“Hmph…” Itto crossed his arms.

“Anyway, like I said, your friends on the surface are negotiating with Monsieur Neuvillette, which will determine whether or not we transfer you from Fontaine to Inazuma.” Wriothesley explained. “Turns out the Kamisatos are willing to pay your bail and whatnot, but you still have to serve time for your crimes regardless. Just less. Perhaps with good behavior you could get out early.” he added, chuckling to himself.

“Tch, you’re not getting any good behavior outta me!” Itto argued stubbornly.

“Oh really now? What a shame~” Wriotheslay teased, chuckling at the other’s reactions.

“Don’t look at me like that! I’m not changing my mind.”

“Hahaha, sure you aren’t…” Wriothesley was amused by Itto’s attitude. He found him rather charming. “Anyway, hm…”

“Yeah?”

“I believe you mentioned sensory issues during your rant earlier. Am I right?”

“Yeah..? What about them?”

“You know you’re free to retreat back to your cell to rest your head, right? I got a document from that shinobi girl that states you’re neurodivergent.”

“Huh?? Shinobu? When did she give you that??”

“What’s more important is letting you know you can rest in your cell, or in my office, when things get too noisy for you. And that includes all senses, ya get it?”

“I think…? But won’t I get in trouble if I’m in the middle of work?”

“Hm, you might, but I could try getting you some noise cancellers to decrease that risk.”

“Is that allowed…?”

“For disabled inmates, all accommodations are allowed. So, yes. I definitely should’ve gotten you more of those earlier…”

Itto looked grumpy instead of responding to that.

“Speaking of which, about your uniform…”

“I hate it. It’s too tight and scratchy and hot and stupid, I can barely breathe!”

“Right. I assume it’s a size too small for you, is that right?”

“Dude, yes! I’ve been trying to tell you over the week, but you’re too damn hard to get a hold of!”

“Hah, sorry about that. Being the admin of this place is a lot of work, you know.”

“Being in this dumb stupid outfit is also a lot of work. These suspenders are shit, the collar is itchy, the sleeves are stupid-”

“Yes yes, I know. Your uniform isn’t the right size, so we’ll simply have to get you a new one.” Wriothesley tried not to laugh at the other’s “work” claim.

“Hmph… Do you even have my size?”

“Boy I sure hope so. Though, I’ll have to take your measurements to be sure.” Wriothesley reached into one of his desk drawers and pulled out a tailor’s measuring tape.

“Huh? How convenient…” Itto wasn’t expecting the duke of all people to have one of those laying around.

“I know, right? Now, first and foremost, you must consent to me touching you for this, alright? I’ll have to wrap it around you and whatnot.” Wriothesley explained as he stood up from his chair, followed by Itto doing the same thing.

“Sure, man! I consent. It can’t be that bad.” he said confidently.

“Right, spread your arms real quick. I’m gonna need to measure around your waist and chest. Probably your hips…” Wriothesley explained, mildly surprised when Itto did as he was told without protest.

“Okay, what else?” he asked.

“Well, you’re a pretty big guy. If you’re too large, you might have to get a custom uniform.” Wriothesley said while he moved to wrap the measuring tape around the other, surprised at the slight jump he got.

“Hmph-! I-Is that so?” Itto jolted a little at the brush against his side and tried to play it off cool, hoping his reaction went unnoticed.

“Mhm. Hold still.” Wriothesley took note of the measurement before moving the tape down to the other’s waist and so on. Itto struggled to stay still though, growing tense. “Heh. Are you ticklish or something? How convenient.” Wriothesley joked, giving Itto a playful poke.

“Pfft- naha-! Sh-Shut up… I’m not ticklish, you just surprised me!” Itto stifled a chuckle and tried to be still. “I’m not used to getting measured, okay??” he said defensively.

“Mhm? I can see that.” Wriothesley chuckled at the other while measuring. He couldn’t help himself noticing the struggle when he measured from Itto’s waist up to his armpit. Itto snickered and yanked his arm down at a mischievous poke to the pit.

“Oops. Hold still now.” Wriothesley could’ve just measured on his back instead since the uniform isn’t supposed to be a tight fit, but he chose that previous area on purpose just to tickle the other.

“Heh! Stop tickling me then!” Itto gave up on T-posing to at least keep his armpits safe.

“Haha, I’m trying!” Wriothesley said, poking the other repeatedly to tickle him.

“Ahaha! No you aren’t!” Itto replied, giggling himself silly while trying to cover himself with his arms.

“Just relax, and let me measure you.” he said, wrapping the tape around his waist again while tickling him all the way around.

“Ahahahahahahaha!!” Itto jumped and laughed, trying to wriggle away to escape.

“I thought you said you weren’t ticklish?” Wriothesley teased, tickling the other’s side for a moment.

“Pfft, hahahaha! Staaahp! You’re doing all that on purpose!” Itto protested with a playful smack to the other’s hand.

“Hm, doing what? I’m just trying to get your measurements.” He rubbed his hand a little before chuckling.

“Like hell you are! Liar…” Itto crossed his arms and scoffed, making Wriotheslay laugh. “It’s not funny! You ass.” Itto turned around and pretended to hit him on the shoulder for the funny.

“Ahaha, sorry! Sorry…” Wriothesley chuckled and composed himself before speaking again. “Now, you did mention the sleeves were too tight and “stupid,” am I right?”

“Yeah, they suck.” Itto nodded.

“What length would you like them to be?” Wriothesley asked while he measured the length Itto’s arms.

“Uh, I dunno? Short? Can’t long sleeves be separate? I really hate how these are- like- half long, half short. It’s so uncomfortable!” Itto responded, having no trouble standing still now. He was very compliant, lifting his arms when needed as the tape was wrapped around his bicep and whatnot.

“Perhaps. Cold inmates usually get an outer shirt so they don’t get sick and such. It might be a little scratchy for you, though. I dunno what fabrics you like.”

“Oh boy, I dunno either… Ask Ayato.”

Wriothesley chuckled at Itto’s response and continued measuring until he was done with the oni’s upper body. “Now, are your pants fitting alright?”

“Eh, not really... Why do I have to wear suspenders? The waist feels weird and these- these *things* are too small.” he said, fidgeting with the suspenders.

“Hm. Eh, we could probably just pick a pair that’s one or two sizes bigger. Might have to cuff the legs though...”

“Huh? Whaddya mean by that?” Itto looked confused while processing what the duke just said.

“Eh, if they’re too long we’ll have to fold the legs up a bit… eh, the fold *is* the cuff, see.”

“Ohh, yeah, that makes more sense! I thought you meant, like, handcuffs?” His misunderstanding made Wriothesley laugh out loud in astonishment.

“Did you really think I’d be cruel enough to cuff your ankles?” Wriothesley asked, in disbelief after such a ridiculous assumption.

“Can you blame me?? It’s been a long day, bro! That’s why I was confused!” Itto replied, laughing as well.

After the two of them had finished laughing and calmed down, they could resume their conversation. Wriothesley noticed Itto seemed a lot happier than when he first came in, so he assumed he’d be fine to return to his cell.

“So, new uniform, noise cancellers, and um… huh, was that all?” he asked.

“I think so? I forgor.” Itto replied.

“Hah, time sure does fly. You should get back to your cell.” Wriothesley tried to usher him to the door.

“Ugh. Do I have to?” Itto huffed and crossed his arms. He didn’t want to leave yet.

“Yes, assuming you’ve recovered. You seem fine, so move along.” Wriothesley tried to coax the oni to follow him, but he refused.

“And what if I don’t wanna, huh? What then, big guy? Gonna toss me out yourself? Ha! I doubt it.” Itto instigated, grinning with mischief.

“That’s-… not a bad idea, actually.” Wriothesley’s expression matched that of Itto as he approached.

“H-Hey, wait! I was kidding~! C’mon, man!” It was at this moment that he knew he’d fucked up.

“Tsk tsk tsk. C’mere, you.” Wriothesley chuckled and made a playful effort to capture the oni, even though he tried to keep the office’s desk and chair between himself and the duke. However, Itto made one small misstep that landed him right in Wriothesley’s grip.

“Ack-! Hey! Let me go!” Having his Vision confiscated had made him weaker (unless that’s not a thing in Fontaine, idk), so wriggling free didn’t work very well.

“Nope. Hold still.” Wriothesley smirked, held him tighter and started tickling his sides, keeping him trapped in a tickle-hug from behind, which instantly made him laugh from surprise.

“Pfft, hahahahahahaha! HehEHEhey!! Whahat gihihives?!” Itto wasn’t expecting tickling, that’s for sure.

“Since you won’t co-operate, I thought of a way to convince you otherwise.” Wriothesley said, also hoping the tickles would calm him like Monsieur Neuv- I mean, uh, whaaaat?

“Thahat- that’s not fair!! Stohohop~! Ahahahahaha!!” Itto wiggled and giggled, protesting playfully every now and then while trying to push the other’s arms away.

“Only if you surrender. Hm, it kinda looks like you’re resisting arrest~” the human teased, poking in different spots whilst holding the oni firmly in place.

“Nohoho! I- heheh- I’m ahalready in jahahail!” Itto snickered, trying to not give away any of his weaker spots.

“Ah, that’s what they all say.” Wriothesley noticed every twitch, smiling as he poked at the other’s ribs repeatedly, earning himself a lot more giggles and playful protests.

“Whohoho do you thihink you ahahahare?!?” Itto was flabbergasted to feel the other already finding out his weakness.

“Oh, I dunno, the duke? Your arresting officer? I’m the boss around here, you know.” Wriothesley chuckled with amusement as he bullied the other.

“Uhunhahahand mehehehe!!” Itto protested, giggling his head off whilst trying to swat the evil pokes away.

“Mm? No, I don’t think I will.” Wriothesley found the situation very funny. He quickly transitioned his pokes to playful flutters and scritches, revoking his office’s status as a quiet place.

“Whaha! WahahaHAHAIT-!!” Itto nearly squaked at the sudden change of pace, his giggles getting louder and more uncontrolled.

“Ticklish, are we?” Wriothesley’s fingers were quick and skillful as if he’d done this regularly, tickling the other’s sensitive ribs despite all the thrashing.

“WAHAHAHAHAHA!! L-LEHEHET GOHOHOHOHO!!” Itto yelped, trying very hard to escape the other’s grip while he laughed helplessly.

“Say “mercy” and I’ll stop.” Wriothesley said, slowing down his tickling to make sure Itto heard him, giving him an easy way out.

“Pfft, never!” Itto retorted, feeling silly having that sensory need fulfilled by the dude that arrested him. He never would’ve guessed…

“Ah, suit yourself, then.” Wriothesley chuckled at the other’s boldness and resumed the quicker tickling, finding the other’s laughter somewhat contagious.

“Pfft! Wahahait! PlehehehEHEHEASE!!” Itto nearly squealed, laughing his ass off once again as he squirmed in the other’s grip. Alas, the tickles had weakened him also; he wasn’t going anywhere.

“Begging already? Oh dear.” Wriothesley chuckled and switched to vibrating his fingers into the other’s ribcage, nearly sending the poor oni to the floor.

“BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!” He was laughing too hard to protest, wriggling and thrashing so much Wriothesley nearly lost his grip.

“Wow, you’re really freakin’ out, huh?” He joked, continuing to tickle the other.

“SHUHUHUT IHIHIHIT!!” Itto replied (barely), indeed flipping his shit over how badly it tickled.

“You ready to give up yet?” Those damn vibrations… How did Wriothesley know to do that? So unfair!

“STAHAHAHAP!! Rehelehehehease mehehehehehe!!” Itto squealed before he wheezed and struggled to breathe. “I’ll take that as a yes.” the other commented, chuckling at the other as he stopped tickling. “Heh, you okay?” He asked, chuckling as the other pretended to go limp in his arms.

“Ehehe… heheh…! You’re evil…” Itto said, giggling while catching his breath.

“I know, but that doesn’t answer my question. Are you okay? … and stand up, you’re not a ragdoll.” Itto chuckled with amusement before a short tickle attack to his armpit jumpstarted him again.

“GAHAHA-!! Gods, don’t do that! Heheh…! I’m fine!” he said, standing normally whilst keeping his arms down to protect himself, giggling slightly between breaths.

Wriothesley was surprised, letting the other catch his breath before he spoke again. “Really? You’re “fine” after all that?” He asked, letting go of him.

“Tch, yeah, it’s not like I’ve never been tickled before!” Itto boasted confidently, throwing shame out the window for a moment.

“Is that so?” Wriothesley chuckled at his admission, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah? I’ve-… I mean-… I guess I’m used to it?” Itto tried to hide his embarrassment, but his ears were slowly turning red despite his efforts. He tended to blush that far when he felt shy and whatnot.

“Right, I’m not surprised considering how goofy you can be. It’s not every day I get to tickle an inmate, haha!” Wriothesley joked, giving Itto a ticklish poke.

“Pff- hey! Hahaha…! I guess you’re lucky?” Itto added, chuckling with the other.

“Heh, I suppose. So are you gonna leave my office and behave yourself, or am I gonna have to start round two?” Wriothesley threatened playfully, making sure to keep a lighthearted expression as he crossed his arms.

“Oh I bet I can take you down this time! Everyone’s ticklish somewhere, ya know!” Itto retorted with equal silliness, cracking his knuckles in an overconfident stance.

“So you’re-?”

“I’m gonna fuck around and find out!” The oni interrupted, knowing there would be consequences, but that he could at least survive them.

“Hm. Try me, you won’t.” Wriothesley challenged, getting ready to wrestle the oni down if he had to.

“You’re gonna get it!” Itto taunted before he made his approach. Wriothesley chuckled and attempted the same desk-between-them strategy Itto had used before when trying go escape him, which proved to be a rather fun game. Eventually, however, the duke got distracted once he bumped his hip into the corner of the desk, wincing slightly in pain before Itto managed to catch him.

“Ah, damn…” he muttered briefly, held like a grumpy cat as Itto lifted him from behind for a moment to celebrate his victory. “Still got some strength left in ya, huh?” he said. It seemed Itto didn’t notice he got hurt.

“Dude, of course! Vision or no, I’m still an oni!” Itto said proudly before setting the man down. “Looks like I win!” he added, keeping the other hugged.

“And who said I gave up?” Wriothesley asked, chuckling to himself. The situation was so unusual and amusing he couldn’t help himself.

“I did, cus I’m about to defeat you!” Itto replied, initiating his silly attack without further warning. With his arms wrapped around the other’s middle, Itto tickled his sides, which caused him to jolt and snicker slightly.

“Mpfft-! A-As if I’ll- *snrk* g-go down so easily…” Wriothesley said, hoping to keep his composure as he tried to break free, but that only caused Itto’s hands to slip a little bit as his grip loosened slightly. “AhahAH-!” The tickles hadn’t stopped, and the slip caused them to move to the sides of Wriothesley’s ribcage instead, which made him jump and laugh with surprise.

“Oh? What was that?” Itto chuckled and kept going, giggling along with amusement.

“Shihihit-! Hahahahahah!” Wriothesley had forgotten how ticklish he could be, and he certainly didn’t expect Itto to find a good spot so quickly.

“Ooh, is the boss a little sensitive there~? Hahahaha! Oh poor you.” Itto teased, mischievous as ever. Wriothesley wheezed and bucked, trying to break free from the ticklish grip.

“Hahahahaha!! Fuhuhuck- stohohohop!” Wriothesley felt embarrassed to make such a fool of himself.

“You givin’ up already?” Itto asked, giggling while he kept tickling, switching spots to the other’s abdomen.

“HahahAHAHAHA!! NOHOHOHO-!!” Wriothesley laughed louder despite his best efforts, his cheeks turning red with embarrassment. He could barely believe he’d gotten himself so ticklish with an inmate of all people.

“Tickle tickle tickle~” Itto teased, tickling the other’s tummy. As luck would have it, Wriothesley finally to break free from Itto’s grasp. He’d love swiftly turn the tables, but he had to breathe first.

“Ah- shit- wait, wahahait! We can talk about this!” Wriothesley glared at him, intimidating the other. Itto tried to bargain his way out, but the duke was having none of it once he approached.

“Oho, I think we’ve talked plenty. Get over here.” Wriothesley replied bluntly, ready for revenge. Itto tried to back away, but Wrio caught him before he could try to escape. “Not so fast.” he said.

“But-! Please! Ihi-!”

“Nope.”

“Ahahahahaha!! Nooo!”

Wriothesley interrupted Itto and tickled him again before he could finish speaking, this time managing to wrestle the other to the floor to really wreck him. Or, well, to defeat him at least. Despite everything, Wriothesley knew better than to overstimulate the oni himself.

“NahAHAHAHahah-!! C’mohohon~!! Ihi was just plahayihihing!!” Itto kept laughing and squirming on the floor, his legs kicking as Wriothesley held his wrists with one hand while tickling him silly with the other.

“I’d have cuffed you for real if I wasn’t feeling merciful…” Wriothesley muttered, acting all grumpy after the tickles he’d faced just moments ago. “You surrendering yet?” he asked.

“NEVERR!!” Itto shook his head.

“You sure about that?” Wriothesley smirked and tickled his way up to Itto’s armpits, switching between them with his one hand.

“Pfft~ ahahAAH!! NAHAHAHAHAHA!!” Itto screeched and tried to get away somehow, making the other chuckle.

“Heh. Didn’t know you could sound like that.” Wriothesley commented. Itto managed to free his arms, but at the cost of his ribs as Wriothesley switched spots, once again tickling his ribcage with vibrating fingers like he had done before. “Do you yield?”

“FFAHAHAHAHAHA!! FIHIHINE-!! YOHOHOU WIHIHIN!!” With his head thrown back, the poor, ticklish oni didn’t last very long before surrendering. Wriothesley finally stopped and pulled his hands away.

“Heheh, you sure put up quite the fight.” Wriothesley was sort of impressed with the other’s endurance.

“Hah… eheh… hehe *hic* heh…! I hate you~ haha…!” Itto struggled to reply while catching his breath, still covering his ribs with his arms just in case.

“Heh, hate’s a strong word. I didn’t kill ya, did I?” Wriothesley joked, reaching out to help Itto get up with him.

“Hahah…! You almost did…” Itto replied, still giggly while he was helped up.

“I didn’t think you could handle all that. I’m impressed.” Wriothesley admitted, smiling at the other.

“Heheh, shut up! You’re cruel!” Itto gently punched him in the shoulder as a playful gesture.

“Hahahaha! I know I am. Still, you’re quite the fighter, huh? Have I told you about the pankration ring yet?” he asked, crossing his arms as he spoke.

“Heheh… huh? The whuh?” Itto chuckled, finally recovered from their tickle fight.

“I’m sure I showed you the area when you got here. Didn’t I?”

Itto lagged for a moment while his brain processed before he remembered. “Oh! Yeah the uh, that boxing arena thingy, right?”

“Yes, that one.”

“What about it?”

“Heh, you could be a pretty good fighter in there y’know. It’s a great way for energetic inmates to blow off steam.”

“Is that so?” Itto was interested already.

“Yes. You should check it out sometime… after your accommodations and whatnot, of course. Just be sure not to hit your opponents too hard, alright?”

“Right, yeah…! I’ll kick your ass for sure!”

“Oh? Is that a challenge?”

“You bet it is!!”

“Haha, I’ll let you know when my schedule’s free for that. You’d best not underestimate me.”

“And you’d better not tickle me! I’d rather lose in real combat than be humiliated like that!”

“Hahahaha! Fine, no dirty tricks from me.”

Although Itto was confused by how quickly their tickle war had ended and how casual conversation had started again, he stuck around to keep discussing with Wriothesley before he felt satisfied enough to return to his cell. He hoped he’d be able to get out soon, but he also wanted to spar with the duke someday.

• Itto is the least judgmental person who ever walked on this planet • He's not the smartest, but he takes care of others in his own way (thinking about how he made everyone stop fighting during the Chasm quest) • Itto is a little (well... big actually) ball of sunshine, but his clothes are pretty dark... I have a feeling that you might like his style • I can see you tracing all his red lines just to find out if they're ticklish (spoiler: they are) • BUT... our favorite oni won't let it slide... prepare yourself to get wrecked, my dear • I think Itto is one of those people who get worried sick after they're done tickling the life out of you and become an anxious and agitated mess, which is fun to see, considering how careful he is to never overstep your boundaries • Like... you're fine but he's going around like Taz from Looney Tunes and bring you water, sweets and everything that might make you comfy • He would LOVE to play any kind of games with you... and he'd actually be a good match (unless you're playing trivia or strategy games) • He would shower you with food and then he'd eat together with you!! He'd take you around through the various festivals in Inazuma to make you try the best delicacies from the best stands • He'd introduce you to the gang as "the vice boss"... and everyone would call you that, except Shinobu. She'd quickly make friends with you and give you tips about how to survive in uni • Big tickle fights with the whole gang!! Although Itto would always be on your side hehe... you're his beloved after all • Dates with him would be romantic in their own way... nothing excessively sweet, but he'd do his best to make you feel loved and appreciated 24/7 (unless it's your anniversary... in that occasion he'll go all out with something so flashy that you almost die from embarrassment)

🔮 Tickle scenario "Oh and this is also good... and then we should go there! And we can't miss that ramen stand!" You barely managed to keep up with Itto's pace as he dragged you to every stand that was at the Irodori Festival.

You had already tasted soba, unagi chazuke, a portion of a so-called invigorating kitty meal, onigiri, katsu sandwich, an egg roll and an egg roll sushi and even some udon, and even though they were all small portions to just let you have a taste of everything, you were starting to feel quite full already. The problem was that Itto wasn't showing any sign of satiety yet!

"Itto, baby... don't you think we've already eaten enough..?" You tried to question him, but he just started rambling (loudly) about how you needed to try everything to enjoy the experience to the fullest. It was endearing to you how hyper he could get about the simplest things... and he had even managed to behave for a week just for you, to not ruin your festival experience! You really couldn't say no to him...

This is how you ended up lying down on the grass near the Statue of the Seven in Ritou, with your bellies about to burst but also with the widest smiles ever. "Did you have fun, Luv?" The oni asked you while staring into your happy eyes. "Yes... the food was amazing! And I loved the atmosphere, thank you" You replied enthusiastically, tired but ecstatic.

"Hell yeah! Even Kujou Sara was surprised by how nice I was behaving... maybe she'd become nicer if she found someone... not you, though! You're all mine~" He planted a big kiss on your cheek to emphasize his point. "Hush..." you manage to say as you felt your face getting a little hotter.

Even if he wasn't the smartest cookie around, Itto was extremely observant with you, and even in the weak light of the early evening he managed to notice the light shade of red invading your face.

"Huh? Are you getting hot? Is it too humid? Are you running a fever?" Well... he was observant, but he didn't exactly have Heizou's detective skills. "Drink this! It's refreshing and you'll feel better!" He shoved a bottle of dango milk in your hands and watched you expectantly as he waited for you to drink it.

"Are you feeling better?" He asked with such worried eyes that it flustered you even more. "Y-yeah... it was nothing, really..." You managed to stutter, but what you didn't expect was Itto connecting the dots.

"Wait! You were just flustered!!!"

He yelled it so loud that you tried to cover his mouth with your hands. "Hush..! Even Lady Guuji will hear you if you keep yelling like this..!" You whisper-yelled, but the oni had a smile even wider than before and a playful glint in his eyes... and you should've noticed.

"Aweee I have the cutest partner in the world!! Come here you!!" He quickly sat up and pulled you on his lap, and before you had the time to defend yourself or protest, five fingers found your tummy and started scribbling on it. "Awe... your giggles are so cute, Sinny~" He cooed while listening to your sweet laughter.

"Nahahahahehehe pfft- Ihihitto wahahait pleahahaseee..!" You squirmed in his lap, but he was too strong for you to get away. "Nope, no waiting. Now I wanna hear you laugh!" None of you two knew why, but your blushy face brought out Itto's playful side, and now there you were, squirming in his lap while he poked your tummy all over.

"Nohohohohooo" You squealed while kicking your feet in the air as if it could help you in any way. "Yehehehes!!" Your boyfriend mocked you without relenting even for a second. "Come on... you know how much I love your laughter, and take this as a revenge for this morning!"

Thinking about it, you shouldn't have tickled him awake that morning...

Knowing it was almost time to stop, the oni decided it was time for the grand finale and lifted up one of your arms while his free hand went to town on your now exposed armpit. "KYAHAHAHAHAHA NAHAHAT TEHEHEHEHEHE NOHOHOHOOOO" You yelled while laughing your head off.

Itto listened to your little howls (and even a couple of tiny snorts) and cherished every second of that moment, but he knew it was time to stop, which he immediately did and let you recover.

"So, did you have fun? It was quite the conclusion for our date, huh?" He asked you while smirking smugly. "Well..." You hesitated a little, because you wanted to act tough but you also didn't wanna lie to him, "well... I surely laughed a lot..." you mumbled. "Oh sure you did..." the white-haired guy chuckled knowingly as you let out a yawn.

"Ohoho... someone's getting tired after all that running around, eating and tickling hahaha" He said before getting up, and before you could do the same, you felt two strong arms wrap around you, one on your back and one under your knees.

"Lupical?" The ember eyed male had questioned, arm's stretching over his own head as a long awaited yawn slipped out, the oni, Arataki Itto, had turned his attention to the younger, Razor, immediately. The two had just met not that long ago, the week filled with silly and new learning experiences for the wild boy, Itto couldn't help but call him a little brother as in his eye's, he was just as lost as he once was. But right now, he needed him to rest.

"Yeah, little bro?" Itto made a grin, smiling all the more when Razor had nuzzled his head under his hand to earn his 'one and oni greatest pats' that his ever received, despite the long nails and abnormally large hande, he had a very gentle and caring touch, almost as gentle as Bennett's, a friend Razor had in Mondstadt. "Razor no sleep now." The smaller said. Itto fanned shock in his expression, but what he didn't expect was for Razor to adjust himself away from nuzzling underneath his jaw and curl against his chest, this, hurt the oni a bit.

"Little bro, you need to sleep, c'mon, we'll have alot of fun tomorrow! This oni promises that, aight?" He smiled, giving his tummy a poke to emphasis on the fun part. He couldn't help but choke out a gasp as he heard Razor giggle from the small poke.

"Y'know what? I think we got enough time for one more activity before beddy by time." And thus, claws rained down on the other, dancing over his side's, holding his awe as Razor tilted side to side and giggled happily from the playful activity, "Why Rahahazor laugh? Rahahazor can't stohop!"

Itto could swear his heart clenched so hard from such pure giggles, they weren't too loud or too silent, they were just airy and bubbly, mixed in with a few gasps and squeals whenever the oni changed his ticklish tactics, "Oh, is my little bro ticklish here? Or over here maybe? Ooo! Maybe right here too!" He laughed along, unable to hold back his excitement while he kneaded his thumbs into the side's of his ribs, earning a louder squeal and arm's to flap around as they tried to get used to the newer sensation's.

"R-Rah-AGH! KYAHAH!" His back lifted off the ground in an attempt to flail out, "Bingo." Was all he heard Arataki say before his thumbs latched on and buzzed right against the side's of his stomach, just midway from his hips and sides, making him retract his arm's and suddenly have his legs spasm underneath him, "Oh? I guess you're little buddy wasn't wrong when he said you really were raised by wolves, huh? You got a little kicking habit! Let me help you!" He smirked, grabbing his ankle and scribbling gently at his sole, making the younger shriek and curl up.

It was a rather gloomy day in Inazuma. The sky was cloudy, the weather was cold, and the air smelt of rain. Most people preferred to stay indoors today, so the streets were emptier than usual. Unfortunately, mother nature wasn’t alone in her sadness; it affected some of the people as well. Especially Thoma…

He let out a sigh after the last customer of the day left Komore Teahouse, relieved to no longer need the customer service mood. He was meant to assist the loyal pooch Taroumaru today, as Ayato had noticed he needed a break from his usual duties.

“Won’t this rain ever end…?” He mumbled, petting Taroumaru’s head to distract himself. He felt grateful for the break, though he still had a lot on his mind.

“Woof!” replied the shiba, his tail wagging as he received pats. The two of them wouldn’t receive customers for a while, so they could just chill.

“Haha, you sure are cheerful today, buddy…” Thoma said with a small smile as the doggo gave his hand a reassuring lick.

“Hm? Ah, it’s nothing, don’t worry about me.” Thoma said, trying to smile in spite of his mood, but he still felt that nagging pain of Sadge™️ in his heart.

“Woof woof!” This clever dog saw right through him, and he was having none of his lies.

“Hey, I’m not-…!” But before the shiba could scold him further for lying, footsteps quickly approached the teahouse’s entrance.

“Hoo! Phew, finally some shelter! C’mon, buddy! Hurry!” The door opened, revealing a slightly drenched Itto with his little bull companion Ushi, both wet from the heavy rain.

“I-Itto?! Oh my! You’re- You’ll catch a cold…!” Thoma exclaimed, surprised to see them entering like that.

“Heh! Oh don’t worry, this is nothin’. Mind if we crash here?” Itto said with confidence, shutting the door once Ushi was in. “I’ve been through worse!” he added with a chuckle.

“L-Let me get you some towels. I’ll be with you in a moment!” Thoma sprung into action right away, leaving the room for a moment while Taromarou went to greet his guests.

“Hahaha! Thanks, man! You’re a real one.” Itto replied, chuckling as Ushi tried to shake himself off. “Hey, hey, be still. Gimmie a sec.” he said, kneeling down to remove the bull’s armor.

“Mooo…” Ushi moo’d with satisfaction, stretching a little before walking towards Taromarou, who had hopped off the counter to play with him.

“Woof woof!” he barked, happily wagging his tail as Ushi replied with another moo.

“Hah! You two sure get along well, huh?” Itto said, chuckling at their cute communication. “Aww, hello, boy! Workin’ hard today, huh? Such a good boy!” He knelt down once more to pet Taromarou, before being “attacked” with puppy kisses.

“Woof woof!” The shiba was happy to see him, licking the oni’s face affectionately, which made him stumble a little.

“Hahaha! Easy there, pal! It tickles.” He said, laughing as he played with Taromarou. “Mooo…” Ushi watched and yawned a bit before he looked around, wondering when the retainer would come back. He preferred to be without chaos for now, wanting to sit beside his master after he’d calmed down.

Meanwhile, Thoma had found the towels, but struggled to leave the room to join the others. He knew they needed to dry themselves, but unfortunately he felt like he couldn’t go back just yet. He knew he should, but the moment he felt tears in his eyes from all the built up sadness, he just wanted to hide. Hearing the fun Itto was having, he didn’t want to spoil it. He knew deep down the oni would understand, being as kind as he was, but he chose to stay to finish crying first.

The playful chaos in the other room lasted for quite a while before the trio realized Thoma hadn’t come back yet. Taromarou had calmed down by then, laying in Itto’s lap with a content expressionon on his widdle face while Ushi huffed to get their attention.

“Hm… hey, shouldn’t Thoma be back now?” Itto asked, petting both animals on their heads.

“Moo.” Ushi agreed, looking to the direction the human had gone.

“Uh-huh… Hey, Taromarou? Wanna earn yourself a treat?” Itto asked with a smile. The shiba perked up and wagged his tail. “Go find Thoma for us, alright?”

“Woof woof!” Taromarou barked with some excitement before he hopped up and sniffed to pick up his master’s scent. He didn’t really need to do this, since he knew where the towels were, but he did it anyway just to be sure.

“Damn it…!” Thoma muttered to himself, wiping his tears away to stop crying. Hearing the door be pushed open by Taromarou startled him, and he almost dropped the towels onto the floor. The loyal dog whined as he walked up to his human, sensing something was wrong.

“Ah-.. what’re you doing here, boy?” Thoma tried to act normal, but couldn’t hide his slightly dampened face from man’s best friend. Taro let out a small growl before barking, basically telling Itto to get over there. “Ah- shh, sshh, don’t-!”

“Woof! Woof woof!” Taromarou huffed and looked at him with big puppy eyes, his tail resting behind him as he felt worried. Thoma was about to say something, but Itto came in just then.

“Aha! You found him! Good boy!” Itto praised, chuckling before he noticed the lack of excitement in the shiba.

“Ah…! S-Sorry for the wait.” Thoma tried to act natural, smiling slightly as he handed a towel to Itto. “You must be cold by now. Please, take this.”

“Ah- thanks, heh!” Itto focused on drying his hair before anything else. He had to be careful not to rip the towel with his horns as he rubbed it against his head.

“Moooo…” Ushi closed his eyes and Thoma knelt down to dry him off. It felt good, he thought.

“There you go, lil- ah, I mean, big guy. Hehe.” Thoma chuckled at his error, but to his dismay started to feel sad again. Emotions are complicated, he thought. He couldn’t hide them from Itto, especially not when knowing he’s so kind and caring. The oni was talking about the weather, but Thoma wasn’t paying attention, trying to control his tears and distract his mind.

“…and it was cold, man! I usually try to brush it off… real men don’t carry umbrellas, I say. I’m starting to reconsider that, though… ugh…” Itto rambled, messing up his hair with the towel as he tried to dry it quickly.

Taromarou whined at Thoma while Itto combed his hair to fix it. The oni glanced at the housekeeper and noticed a sniffle. “Hey…? Are you okay?” he asked.

And that’s when the floodgates opened, of course, at that simple question. He trusted Itto, so his brain was simply wired to let go of his emotions now. He couldn’t say much as he wiped his tears.

“Thoma…” Itto knew Thoma liked hugs, so he sat down next to him on the floor and invited him into one. Ushi wiggled away from the towel to comfort the worrying shiba while the men hugged one another.

“There there, I got you…” Itto comforted, patting the other’s back. Thoma’s cries were mostly sniffles and hiccups. His voice was barely heard. He rested his head against the other, melting into the embrace as he sought comfort. “I’m just so tired…” he said, sniffling and wiping his eyes.

“I get that…” Itto couldn’t remember if he’d ever seen Thoma cry before. It worried him, but he kept focusing on comforting the other. Poor guy, thought Ushi as he stood by and watched, trying to comfort the whining shiba. Thoma calmed down after a while, feeling much better after letting his frustrations out. He wanted to pull away, but simply couldn’t as he rested against Itto, so tired from such a long day.

“You okay?” Itto asked, patting his back as he loosened the hug.

“Mm… it’s been a long day, I guess…” Thoma replied, wiping his eyes again.

“Yeah. Maybe it’s the weather? I mean, it’s pretty shitty today, isn’t it?” he said with a light chuckle, pleased to hear a snicker from the other.

“Heh, yeah. It’s been raining all day. I’ve felt down since I woke up this morning.” Thoma said, sighing. “I guess I got up on the wrong side?”

“Mm, maybe. I know how it feels. It sucks.” Itto replied, adjusting himself as Thoma pulled away.

“Yeah… one thing lead to another, and-… here we are.” Thoma said, hinting as if something else was wrong.

“Mhm? What happened?” Itto gave him a curious look.

“Ah, just… minor inconveniences building up.” He didn’t want to talk about it and hoped Itto wouldn’t pry.

“Ah, dude, I hate when that happens! And it’s always when we’re already upset- THAT’S when our clothes get caught on door handles.” Itto ranted, crossing his arms.

Thoma laughed, and Itto felt glad for that. “It’s true! It really is…!” the pyro wielder agreed, chuckling at Itto’s attitude.

“For real. Ugh!” Itto rolled his eyes before smirking and laughing it off with Thoma. They were still sat on the floor, allowing Taromarou to come cuddle his master.

“Y’know you can tell me anything, right?” Itto asked, patting Ushi who’d come over to join.

“Yeah… I just… I heard some whispers around the estate, and all… I kinda miss Mondstadt, too.” Thoma took a breath and explained as best as he could. Sometimes, certain estate guards were not kind to him. They didn’t think a guy from Mondstadt belonged there, working for such an important family in Inazuma. Their distasteful jabs really stuck with him today, since his mood was already down to begin with.

“It’s not the first time… I’ve already told Master Kamisato about it. Again.” he sighed as he said this, petting Taromarou while he spoke.

“Psh, then you gotta tell them to fuck off! Stand up for yourself, man! Those guards ain’t shit!” Itto said, angry that someone would be so mean to Thoma. He was such a kind soul! He didn’t deserve that!

“Ah, I know… but- well, they’re kinda intimidating, heh…” Thoma chuckled slightly, a bit embarrassed. Ushi huffed in response.

“They’re pussies, actually! What, they can talk smack behind your back, but can’t say it to your face?” Itto questioned.

Thoma chuckled. “They do, sometimes. It’s pretty back-handed.”

“The audacity! Ugh, when I catch them-…” Itto huffed angrily, clenching his fists.

“L-Let’s not escalate anything, okay? I’ll talk to Ayato about it…” Thoma said, smiling nervously.

“You still need to stand up for yourself and tell those guys to buzz off!” he said, now censoring his swears for Thoma’s sake.

“I-… I can’t do that, Itto.”

“Yes you can. Ayato wouldn’t fire you for that, y’know. He’s a chill guy.”

“That’s not what I’m worried about. Those guards just scare me too much…” Thoma frowned and looked away, getting nudged by Taromarou.

“Then scare them back. Tell them the big bad oni will come get them if they don’t stop!” Itto said, grinning with some amusement at his idea.

Thoma chuckled. “Itto, they’d arrest you on sight if I threaten them with that!”

“So what? I’m not going down without a fight!” Itto chuckled too, enjoying their newfound banter.

“And how do you think Ayato would react seeing you beat up his guards?”

“If his guards are asshats, they deserve it.” Itto shrugged. Thoma snickered and started laughing at Itto’s goofy arguments.

“Hahaha…! Oh you’re impossible to reason with~!” he teased.

“Pfft, so are you!” Itto struggled to contain his giggles.

“Touché. Hahahaha..!”

“Hahahahaha!”

Once they had calmed from their shared giggles, Thoma felt the weight on his heart lighten. Taromarou wagged his tail and nuzzled him to comfort further. Thoma giggled at the shiba’s antics, feeling ticklish from the way his muzzle rubbed against his neck.

“Aww~ such a good boy!” Itto cooed, smiling at the cuteness. Ushi agreed, giving a small nod he’d learned from the bipedals around him.

“Pfft~ Hehehey!” Thoma protested half-heartedly as Taromarou excitedly pawed at him, licking his face and wagging his tail. “I-It tickles!” Thoma giggled more as the dog managed to push him over.

“Hahaha! Yeah, get him!” Itto joked playfully, laughing along at the scene.

“Itto, help me~! Hehehehe!” Thoma laughed playfully, putting little effort into escaping.

“Haha, fear not, I’ll help ya out!” Itto said, with a rather devious expression which the housekeeper didn’t see.

“Ahahaha! Hurry!” Thoma laughed as the playful shiba licked his ear, trying to push the doggo away.

“Heheh, do I have to?” Itto took his time, giggling at the scene before scooping up Taromarou and placing him aside.

“Hehe…! Thank you…” Thoma chuckled, about to sit up before he suddenly found himself laughing out loud again as Itto betrayed him, tickling him instead. “WhAAHAHA!! Wahahahahait- nohohohohoho!!” he squealed with surprise, weakly pushing at his tickler’s wrists as he laughed and wiggled.

“Instructions unclear, couldn’t let him have all the fun!” Itto teased, playfully wiggling his fingers all around, gently but quickly tickling the other. Taromarou hopped around playfully as he watched, happy to see and hear Thoma smiling and giggling.

“Ihihittohohoho!! Ahahahahahaha! Plehehehease!” Thoma laughed, not squirming around as much as Itto had hoped he would. The tickly sensation of those nails combining with his shirt’s fabric was simply maddening, yet strangely fun.

“Heheh! You want me to stop?” Itto asked, targetting the other’s sides and ribs for the funnie.

“Ahahahahahaha!! N-Not thehehehere!!” Thoma squealed, his eyes squeezed shut as he laughed and wiggled. Despite how badly it tickled, Thoma didn’t squirm too much, but the teasing made him want to roll away and curl up. Itto snickered, finding him oddly adorable while tickling his tummy, making him laugh and flutter his legs. “Mhm? You want mercy yet?” he asked.

“Ahahahahahaha!! Y-Yehehes, plehehehease!!” Thoma finally pleaded, giggling his head off. He was a really ticklish guy; a fact both Kamisato siblings knew well before Itto found out.

“Hahaha! There ya go~ was that so hard?” Itto teased playfully as he stopped tickling. He reached out to help Thoma, pulling him up to sit.

“Haha… huff… haha… that was mean, you know…” He said, too shy to admit he’d needed it.

“Heh! Ya better keep on smiling now, or the tickle monster might getcha!” Itto joked, laughing at the playful shove he got in response.

“Don’t be so childish! Hahaha…” Thoma joked back, chuckling with amusement. Boy, he sure was lucky Itto had shown up.

“Hahahaha! I’m not being childish, I’m just warning ya.” Itto replied, sticking his tongue out in a playful expression.

“As if, you goof.” Thoma chuckled, feeling a lot better than he did earlier today. He was really glad Itto showed up, relieved to no longer have to cry. “Heh… thanks for cheering me up, though…” he said, a bit sheepish since he’d been tickled.

“Ah, no problem. I’m just glad I could help out!” Itto replied, grinning proudly. “And besides, it was really funny seein’ you giggle like that.”

“Oh, don’t even mention that!” Thoma blurted out, embarrassed by his teasing.

“Heh! Or what? What’re you gonna do ‘bout it?” Itto taunted playfully, giggling at the playful banter.

“Tch.” Thoma had to think of something…

“I’ll just tickle you agai-”

“Taromarou, get him!”

“Wh-What?!”

“Woof woof!” Itto’s confidence was short-lived as the shiba sprang up, wagging his tail as he unleashed his nuzzling attack. Ushi huffed and sat a bit further away from the chaos, knowing dang well his master wouldn’t last without squirming.

“Pfft- that’s not fair!” Itto protested, giggling his ass off already as he tried to gently push the dog away. The affectionate nuzzles and licks against his jaw tickled real bad.

“That’s how it started for me, so it’s plenty fair.” Thoma replied, chuckling with amusement. Unfortunately, he didn’t have the courage to tickle Itto himself, so he let his pupper do it instead.

“Hahahaha! Make him stop~! I- hahaha! I cahahan’t-! Hehehehe!” Itto struggled to speak through his giggles, and Taromarou pushed him over just like he’d done to Thoma.

“Hehehe, that’s so cute~!” Thoma cooed, adoring his dog’s antics. It was also really funny how such a small dog could bring such a powerful oni down like that.

“Hahahaha! C’mohohon! Stahp it!” Itto snickered and finally managed to convince Taromarou to let up, giggling as he caught his breath.

“Are you really that ticklish, Itto?” Thoma teased with amusement. He was genuinely curious, though.

“Tch, am not! Shut up…” Itto protested, though he struggled to act grumpy because that moment was simply too sweet not to smile at.

“You sure about that? Taro sure had you fighting for your life there.” Thoma said with a chuckle.

“Psh, that was nothing! It’s not like I was dying from some puppy love.” Itto scoffed, trying to save his pride.

“Mhm, sure…” Thoma chuckled and shook his head before standing up from the floor.

“I’m not lying!” Itto retorted, standing up as well.

“I didn’t say you were!” Thoma replied.

“You-…! Pfft-…”

Neither of them could continue their banter as they laughed at the situation. Itto never failed to bring joy and sunshine wherever he went, even on the gloomiest of days. Thoma felt grateful to have him as a friend; he was always so kind and loving to him.

“Please let me come with you!”

“No.”

“Please?? Pretty please?? I just NEED to meet my savior again!”

“Ugh… You’re not gonna give in, are you?”

“No? Gah, I’m sorry, Shinobu. I just really miss her, y’know? I promise I won’t cause any trouble if I come with!”

“Really. Do you swear-?”

“I swear on my life! Pinky promise!”

“… fine! You can come, but if I have to bail you out of jail again, I’ll lose my mind!”

“Yesss! Haha! Don’t you worry, girlie. I’ll be on my best behavior!”

“… don’t call me girlie.”

“Heh, sorry…”

And that’s how the conversation went before Arataki Itto set sail to Liyue. Of course, he didn’t go alone, since his gang-mate Shinobu was there with him. He had begged her to let him come with because he missed Yanfei and wanted some adventure, and she finally agreed so that he’d shut up. He felt a bit seasick, but survived the whole trip looking out at the water.

Once they got to Liyue Harbor, Itto needed some time to settle himself before going out to explore. Shinobu was a bit hesitant to let him roam free, considering the legal trouble he got into last time, but she knew he took promises very seriously, so she let him go.

He wandered around the city, browsing different stalls and awkwardly apologizing since he had no money on him, petting dogs and cats on his way, and exploring where different stairs would take him. He had to ask a stranger if those wooden stairs were private or not, since he hadn’t used them last time he was here. At least not on his own, since he was mostly following Shinobu back then.

After a while, he noticed a calm area with a small stage whereupon a man stood, telling a story to about three people. Itto felt curious and wanted to check it out. He tried being quiet as he made his way to an empty chair next to this real fancy looking guy.

“Erm, e-excuse me. Is this seat taken?” He whispered, hoping not to interrupt the story.

“No, go ahead.” The fancy man whispered back, glancing at him for a moment before looking back at the story teller.

Itto mumbled “thanks” and sat down, noticing some awkward glances from the other two people. He was used to the attention considering his oni status, so he ignored them and tried to focus on the story instead. Unfortunately, he’d missed a lot of context so he didn’t really understand what was going on, but he liked it anyway and applauded when it was done. He noticed he must’ve been louder than the rest…

“Haha, thank you, young one. I appreciate the enthusiasm.” said the story teller, looking directly at Itto. He wasn’t sure how to reply til the guy switched subject seconds later.

“The rest of you know the drill. I’ll be here the same time tomorrow. For now, I bid you farewell.” he said with a bow, receiving another round of applause, which were quieter with Itto trying to match the volume of those around him. He felt a little embarrassed.

“H-Heh… uh… cool story, huh?” he said, hoping to lighten the tension he felt from the other two men to his left.

“Indeed. It’s a shame you missed the beginning.” The fancy man said, glancing at the other two for a moment before looking at Itto.

“Haha! Yeah, I didn’t know this was a thing til now. I don’t remember if I’ve ever been up here…” Itto said, looking around.

“I see. You must not be from around here, then? Where are you from, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Uh, Inazuma! I’m here visiting with a friend of mine! She has this thing going on though, so I’m alone for now. On my own, I mean.” Itto said, happy to talk.

“Inazuma, hm? I did hear they reopened their borders a while ago…”

“Yeah, they did. Heh, it’s a shame I got all seasick on my way here though!”

“Haha, indeed. That must’ve been quite a struggle since it’s so far away.” The fancy man had a sense of humor, which felt like such a relief.

“Hahaha! Yeahh, but I managed. Didn’t even throw up, cus I was on deck looking outside at the water.” Itto said, noticing he might’ve said something inappropriate judging from the other two.

“I see. That is a good strategy.” The fancy man said, giving the other two men a look.

“Mhm…” Itto felt a little awkward, looking down at his fidgeting hands. The two other dudes eventually got up and left.

“Oh, don’t mind them.” The fancy man must’ve noticed how Itto felt.

“Hm? Uh, who?”

“Ah, nevermind.”

Dang it, now it was awkward for both of them, wasn’t it? Itto could basically melt into the floor from the silence…

“Hmm… You said you were from Inazuma, correct?” the fancy man said.

“Uh, yeah! I did! I’m a tourist today I guess.” Itto replied.

“Mhm? In that case, you’re not an adeptus…” the man mumbled, looking at Itto’s horns curiously.

“A… what now?”

“Oh, pardon me. I’ve forgotten the term… Forgive my rude question, but um… Your horns. You’re not human, are you?” He seemed a bit embarrassed, failing to formulate his question in a better way.

“A-Ah, heh, no. I’m an oni!” Itto said with a smile.

“Ah, yes. Now, could you tell me which umbrella term you’d fall under? I’ve forgotten the word…”

“Yōkai?”

“Yes, thank you. I was supposed to ask if you were a yōkai, since adepti are native to Liyue. Pardon my bluntness earlier…”

“Ah, it’s fine, man! No biggie. I’ve heard worse, hahaha!”

The two continued chatting for a while until another wave of awkward silence showed up. This time, Itto was the one to break it.

“Hey, so, um…” Fantastic start.

“Yes?”

“I feel like I’ve met you before. I could be wrong, but… You seem so oddly familiar.” Itto said, looking at the man. His mannerisms were similar to Ayato’s, which wasn’t too surprising since he looked so fancy. Even so, Itto felt as if he’d met this guy before… or was it just his comparison to Ayato that manufactured familiarity?

“Hmm… You mentioned you’ve been here before, if I’m not mistaken. Perhaps we bumped into each other back then?”

“Maybe, but I don’t remember. I mostly remember being there for Shinobu’s graduation, and meeting Yanfei!” Itto said excitedly.

“Yanfei, you say? You know her?”

“Yeah! She saved me from a jail sentence cus I got into a fight, heh…”

“I see. I think I heard rumors about that…”

“Yeah, I bet.”

“I’m somewhat glad Chonggyun wasn’t there. He’s an exorcist; you probably would’ve been in danger.”

“Oh for real? Crazy.” Itto chuckled and thought back to the last time he was in Liyue, trying to remember if he’d seen this man before…

“Ah, I don’t believe we’ve introduced ourselves. My name is Zhongli. It’s nice to meet you.” The fancy man said.

“Oh, right! Heh, I’m Arataki Itto! Nice to meet ya to!” Itto said proudly. Zhongli chuckled slightly at his confident tone, and the two chatted more, talking about hobbies and work and what to do in Inazuma and Liyue. After a while, Zhongli realized he had places to be, so they got up. Just as Zhongli was about to leave, Itto spotted something that made him gasp.

“Is-?! Is that a GEO VISION?!” He exclaimed, super excited to find out his new friend had the same Vision as himself. It looked different too. He saw it when briefly admiring the details in Zhongli’s clothing.

“Oh, this? Hm, yes. It is.” Zhongli replied with a small smile.

“Whooaa, I have one too! Look!” Itto said, showing off how shiny his Vision was.

“Ah, yes. How could I not have noticed?” Zhongli said, lying since he definitely saw it earlier, but forgot to bring it up.

“I dunno, I guess you’re too tall?” Itto joked, coming closer to look at Zhongli’s vision.

“Haha, perhaps so. Though, unfortunately I really don’t have time for more chats at the moment…”

“Awh man…”

“Perhaps we’ll meet again, hm? I’d love to talk with you more.” Zhongli said, comforting the oni.

“Heh, yeah! That story dude said he’d be here tomorrow again, right? We could meet up here then!” Itto suggested, excited to have made a new friend.

“Indeed, haha… Then let’s meet here again.”

After that, they chatted on their way out before eventually going in different directions, saying their goodbyes. Itto was on his own again, wandering around the city looking for Shinobu. He felt like a lost puppy for a while until he found her, excitedly telling her about his new friend. She was happy for him, and relieved to hear he hadn’t caused any trouble. Once they were united, they went to visit Yanfei. Itto was really happy to meet her again, telling her all sorts of fun things while catching up. It was a really nice day.

The next day, Itto had overslept by seveal hours and had to rush to get to the story teller thingy on time. When he finally got there, the dude on stage was in the middle of his story just like last time. Itto felt bad he’d missed the start again, but quietly sat down with Zhongli. He tried to surpress his sleepy yawns throughout, but it was too hard. He’d cover his mouth every time and try to look attentive, hoping he wouldn’t hurt the story teller’s feelings.

After today’s story, the man thanked the audience again and announced he’d be there next week instead of tomorrow. Itto hoped he didn’t take his yawns personally. Once he and the other two strangers had left, Itto and Zhongli chatted again.

“Sorry I’m late… I slept like a log all night. And morning.” Itto said, rubbing his eyes.

“I see. It’s alright. I had assumed you’d forgotten the time.” Zhongli replied, relieved to see him arrive.

“Haha, yeah…” Itto said, yawning. “Oh man, I’m such a snooze today.”

“I don’t blame you. I’d be tired too if I’d traveled so far the day before.”

“Mhm…”

As they talked, Itto still couldn’t shake the feeling he’d known this man for much longer. Was it the Vision? The Ayato-esque personality? Or something else?

“What’s on your mind?” Zhongli asked, noticing that somehow.

“I just can’t shake this feeling that I know you from somewhere else… I just know I’ve met you before, but I can’t remember when! O-Other than yesterday.” Itto explained.

“Is that so? Hmm… Are you certain?”

“Yes?? No?? I don’t know! You just feel so strangely familiar…”

“How curious.” Zhongli tried to remember if they’d met before, but nothing came up.

“Hm… maybe it’s got something to do with our visions? Like- Maybe our visions are linked somehow, since they’re both geo?”

“Haha, perhaps so. I suppose that could be an explanation.”

“Uh-huh. Even your outfit matches it! Totally repping the geo element, eh?”

“Oh, you noticed? Thank you.” Zhongli was surprised at Itto’s knack for noticing details so far.

“Ya kinda remind me of my bro Ayato. I think he’s still in Inazuma, though, unless he comes here on a “business trip” while I’m here.”

“Ayato, you say? Kamisato Ayato?”

“Yeah! Do you know him?”

“Ah, yes, I believe I’ve met him. He’s quite influential in Inazuma, isn’t he?”

“Haha, yeah! He is! We’re, like, super close, dude. Love that man for real.” Itto said, blushing a little bit thinking about Ayato.

“That’s wonderful. Love truly is special, hm?” Zhongli said, teasing him a little.

“Whuh- I-I mean, yeah! He’s-… heh… he’s a great guy, really.” Itto said shyly, a little embarrassed to accidentally have outed himself. Zhongli chuckled quietly to himself. This oni reminded him of a certain redhead he knew *very* well. Though unlike Itto, Zhongli was able to keep his composure and didn’t blush.

“Hey, y’know what? I wanna see your fighting skills!” Itto said confidently.

“Oh?”

“Yeah! I wanna see what you can do with your geo vision!”

“Oh, do you have time for that?”

“I sure do! Heh, I’ll show you mine if you show me yours!” Itto said with a laugh. Zhongli chuckled at his joke, recognizing it from his partner…

“Well, I just happen to have the day off today. So why not? Let’s get going, shall we?”

“Really?! Aw, yeah! Let’s go!”

Itto continued talking to Zhongli while they walked together, following him wherever they were going. He had no clue where they were headed, but trusted this guy enough to just go along with it. They continued chatting and walking until they reached a more secluded area.

“Whoa…” Itto said and admired the scenery.

“This area should give us some privacy, so we don’t get interrupted.” Zhongli said, summoning his polearm.

“Whoa! Cool weapon! Heh, but it’s not as cool as mine!” Itto said confidently, summoning his claymore.

“Haha, well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Though, I will admit your claymore is cool as well.” Zhongli replied with a smile.

“C’mon! Show me what you got! I wanna see what you can do with that thing!”

“Oho. Is that a challenge?”

“You bet it is. Let’s spar! I wanna test your strength!”

“Hm, alright. Though I must warn you.” Zhongli readied himself for combat. “Don’t understimate me.”

“Right back at ya, bro!” Itto replied, with a readied stance of his own.

“May the strongest fighter win.” Zhongli said, and Itto didn’t have time for a witty comeback before the spar started. They were mostly focused on knocking each other over so they wouldn’t get hurt too badly. Itto managed to win the first round by disarming Zhongli, knocking the polearm out of his hands.

“Damn, you’re a really good fighter, y’know!” Itto said, helping him up.

“Haha, thank you. I suppose you could say I’ve been practicing.” Zhongli replied, moving over to pick up his weapon.

“Haha, I can tell! But you’re no match for my oni strength!” Itto boasted with a confident laugh.

“Oh, please. That was just a warm-up.” Zhongli replied, jokingly rolling his eyes.

“Oh yeah? You want a rematch, bro? Come at me!”

And so round two began, with Zhongli’s moves being more calculated this time around. Itto tried to up his game as well, but found himself outsped and unable to defend properly. He was eventually disarmed, but didn’t surrender and tried to take away Zhongli’s weapon. After a brief tussle, Zhongli managed to wrestle him down, tossing the weapon aside in the process, pinning Itto face-down to the ground.

“Oof..! H-How did you-…?” Bro was flabbergasted. How could such a chill looking guy be stronger than he was?? Unacceptable!

“Ah, looks like I win.”

“No way, man! I’m not giving up til I say I give up! I still got more fight in me!!”

“Really? Then try to break free.”

“Oh I won’t just try! I’ll succeed!” Itto squirmed and struggled, trying to free himself from Zhongli’s grip, or throw him off somehow, but he couldn’t.

“Hngh… h-how are you so strong?! That’s not fair! I’m an oni! I’m not supposed to be held down by some human!”

“Hahaha, didn’t I tell you not to underestimate me? Tsk tsk.”

“Ugh! Let me go!”

“Do you yield?”

“Never! This is cheating!”

“No, I don’t think it is…”

Itto tried to use more of his strength, but no matter how hard he strained, he couldn’t break free. Best he could do was crawl a little bit before losing balance due to Zhongli’s strategy.

“Huff… you’re too strong. What are you, like, the archon or somethin’?” Itto asked, out of breath.

“Huh- wh-… pardon?” Zhongli was surprised by how accurate his assumption was, unsure if he was joking or not.

“If you’re just a human, there’s no way you could keep me down like this, man! Or I guess it could just be a geo thing, I dunno…”

“Y-Yes, I believe that might be the case.”

“Even so, I’m an oni! An oni with a geo vision. So how are you so strong, huh? What’s your secret? Some sorta Liyue workout?” Itto questioned, narrowing his eyes as he tried to look back at him.

“I- eh…” Zhongli, for once, struggled to come up with a reply. Itto’s eyes widened.

“You ARE the archon! Aren’t you? That explains your fashion… and your crazy strength, I guess!”

“N-Now, let’s not get too hasty-“

“I knew I recognized you! Cus if you’re the geo archon, then *you* gave me this vision! Right? That’s gotta be how I recognized you!”

“How on earth did you even figure that out?? Did Traveler tell you? Or Paimon?” Zhongli couldn’t believe his ears.

“So I WAS right! Hahahaha!” Damn it, he’d spilled the beans. “Our archon walks among her people too, y’know! I kinda just assumed~”

“Uh-huh… I see…” Zhongli couldn’t fathom his own lapse in judgement at this point.

“Well no wonder I lost, you’re literally a god. That’s so unfair…” Itto said, chuckling. It was kinda cool to have befriended the geo archon of all people.

“Well~ I suppose with enough dedication you could *maybe* reach my level.” Zhongli teased, amused by Itto’s personality. “So, do you surrender?”

“No! I never surrender! I don’t know the meaning of the word!”

“Then how about I convince you? This isn’t my first time dealing with a stubborn opponent.”

“Oh yeah?! As if you can break me!”

“I think I can, actually. Haha, you remind me of a dear friend of mine with all that fighting spirit.” Zhongli smiled thinking about that man.

“Yeah? Hehe, so what? I’m still gonna win!” Itto was still just as stubborn, refusing to give up.

“Not if you both have the same weakness to tickling. Though, I do worry that’d be past your boundaries.”

“Wha-?!” Itto wasn’t expecting that, but sort of preferred it over getting hurt or just having to lay there all day, dying of boredom… or whatever the alternative would’ve been.

“So, what’ll it be? The choice is up to you.” Zhongli said, finding the situation rather funny.

“Tch, do your worst! I’m never gonna surrender! Y-You’ll be tired before I will, cus I’m not ticklish!” Itto insisted, totally not nervous out of his mind.

“Are you sure about that?”

“Y-Yeah? Of course I am… h-heh…”

“Oh well, I suppose I’ll have to check for myself.” Zhongli felt amused by Itto and decided to humor his goofy ass, wasting no time before tickling his sides.

“Please, try to hold still.” he added, noticing the near instant feedback of squirms and snickers he got.

“Pfft~! Fwahahahaha! N-No wahahay mahahahahan!!” Itto protested, struggling to break free. Letting Zhongli tickle him was totally just a way to distract him. He’d free himself in no time, trust…

“As you wish…” but Zhongli wasn’t having it, instead speeding up his tickling, wondering if the oni would yield to such a thing. He couldn’t find an optimal way to target his armpits, so he just went down to his waist instead.

“Pfft hehehehehe! Hahahahaha! Ihihit’s hard to breheheathe like thihis…!” Itto wheezed, hoping to find a loophole to escape through.

“Pardon?” Zhongli stopped for a moment since he couldn’t quite understand what was just said.

Itto panted for a moment before speaking up. “I-It’s kinda hard to breathe like this…”

“Well, if you’d like to roll over, I suppose I could let you.”

“Ah… really? Isn’t that kinda cheating…?”

“I don’t want you inhaling grass while struggling to breathe.”

“Heh… I’m not allergic or anythin’…”

“Well, it’s still no fun for you if you suffocate.” The way he worded that sounded like he knew Itto was having fun. How embarrassing… was he that obvious?

“What the-?!” Zhongli let go of him for a moment, somewhat shocked to see him suddenly try to fight back.

“Mwahahaha! Bet ya weren’t expecting that!” Itto said, but before he could tickle him back, Zhongli grabbed his wrists to wrestle him away.

“Weren’t you supposed to surrender?”

“Pfft, no way, José! I bet I could escape behefohohore yohohou-! Heheh! Hey!!” Zhongli held Itto’s right wrist specifically, tickling him with his other hand before he could try to win.

“Ah, I thought you had good reflexes…” he teased, knowing Itto had worse coordination in his left arm. He’d noticed he was right-handed during their earlier combat.

“Shut uhuhuhup!! Pfft-!” Itto protested, trying to free himself, until Zhongli got a sensitive spot, making Itto tip over giggling instead.

“Oh my, down already?”

“Shut up! I can’t help it!”

“That’s too bad.” Zhongli switched to targetting Itto’s ribs with both hands, which made him laugh louder and kick his legs against the ground.

“AhahAHAHA!! Nohohot thehehehere!!” he protested, trying to push the archon’s hands away somehow.

“Just let me know when you yield, okay?” Zhongli teased, thinking about how similar Itto’s reactions were to those of his own partner. But by now, if this were the redhead he was tickling, he’d already be pleading for mercy. Especially after that “not there!” Itto had just laughed out. It was quite amusing.

Itto managed to cover his ribs with his arms, slipping them under Zhongli’s hands at just the right time, taking advantage of the way he’d lift his hands only to suddenly attack again.

“Ah, well…” Zhongli shrugged, pausing only because Itto was trying to talk.

“Th-Thihis..! This is so unfahahair!!” he said, full of giggles.

“Is it~? Or are you just a sore loser?” Zhongli teased, chuckling at the way Itto struggled to look angry.

“Shut your mouth, grandpa! You’re an archon, so you have an unfair advantage!”

“What did you just call me?” Zhongli was surprised for a moment, but should’ve expected nothing more than boldness from this man…

“Eheh, uh… I called ya gramps.” Itto said, getting nervous.

“Hmph. I’m afraid I can’t accept such a rude attitude.” Zhongli said, attempting a glare that wouldn’t scare him too much.

“W-Well, th-.. that’s too dang bad.” Itto said, trying to hide how nervous he felt. The anticipation was already killing him, which was kinda funny to see.

“Oh well, I’ll just have to continue your dicipline until you surrender.” Zhongli said, giving him no time to protest before attacking again, tickling his tummy.

“Bwahahahahahaha!!” Itto started laughing right away, still adamant on protecting his ribcage while kicking his legs to cope.

Zhongli chuckled to himself, admitedly feeling a strange parental-like connection to Itto, which made him feel weird about his previous comparison to Ajax… It felt as if they were playfully bonding like a father and son, oddly enough. Perhaps it was Itto’s joyous laughter, Zhongli’s ancient age, or their previous conversations about their shared elemental visions? In any case, it was clear both of them were having fun.

“Gosh, your fighting spirit can’t be tamed, can it?” Zhongli said, stopping the tickles after a while, just so Itto wouldn’t die or something.

“Aheheh… heh… huff… j-just need’a… need a breather…!” Itto said, panting heavily while trying to control his giggles.

“You know, you’re actually winning a competition I wasn’t expecting to exist…” Zhongli said, smirking at the curious look on the oni’s face.

“Whuh…? Heh, whaddya mean?”

“Well, remember how I mentioned that friend of mine?”

“Yeah?”

“You might just last longer than he usually does.”

Itto laughed when he heard that. “Whoa, who knew the geo archon would be such a tickle monster? You seemed so chill I never would’ve suspected that!”

“Never judge a book by its cover~ Would you like to beat his high score?”

“Heh, bring it on! I ain’t tired yet!”

“Then let me know when you are.” Zhongli briefly stretched his hands, cracking his knuckles, which made Itto extremely nervous.

“Oh god…”

“Oh, did I scare you?”

“Uh yeah?? Y-You’ll go easy on me, r-right? C’monnnnn, we’re homies! Right?” Itto said, trying to bargain so he wouldn’t die metaphorically.

“Hmm. Well-… No, I won’t go easy on you. That wouldn’t be fair. And, what on earth is a ‘homie’?” Zhongli said, confused.

“Pfft… you’ve never heard that? It’s like slang for ‘friend’, like buddy, pal, chum, bro, uhh… my dude, my guy, uh…”

“I see… Ah, you younguns and your “lingo,” goodness…” Zhongli shook his head and Itto snickered at him. “Well enough distractions, where were we?”

“Heh! Uhhhh, I’m not telling.”

“Too bad. I remember.”

“Oh- oh shihihIHIHIT!!”

Zhongli wasted no more time, targetting Itto’s ribs since they gave the biggest reaction so far. Itto burst into laughter immediately, head thrown back against the grass. One tiny part of him hoped he wouldn’t get any grass stains in his hair, while the rest of him fought for his life as he laughed his ass off, frantically kicking his legs and squirming helplessly. The fact that he couldn’t push Zhongli’s hands away drove him insane.

“Ah, this spot is just awful for you, isn’t it?” Zhongli asked, amused.

“NAHAHAHA!! SHUHUT IHIHIHIT!!” Itto laughed, his instincts making him try to cover his ribs, which just trapped Zhongli’s hands instead.

“Oh dear, you’re losing it…”

“BE QUIEHEHEHEHET!!”

“I didn’t know yōkai could be so ticklish. I thought it was more of a human thing.” Zhongli said, deciding to lessen the “torture” and switch to playfully tickling Itto’s tummy instead, turning his loud laughter into hysteric giggles instead.

“Ohohoh my gohohohod..!” Itto complained, hiding his embarrassed face behind his hands.

“Yes~?” Zhongli replied, as if he’d been waiting to joke like that.

“HehehEHEhehe!!” Y-You’re evil~! Hahahaha!!” Itto yelped, now trying to push those dang hands away.

“Hehe, no I’m not. Now accept defeat, or I’ll have to get meaner.” Zhongli teased, scribbling around on Itto’s abs, chuckling at his increased giggles and his attempts to cover the area with his arms.

“Nohohohoho~!!”

“Yuh-huh.”

“Never!!”

“Suit yourself.”

Zhongli increased the intensity for a moment, just enough to make Itto laugh louder and swear at him, which was really funny to him.

“Oh my, you’ve got no manners! I thought Ayato would’ve taught you by now.” Zhongli commented after stopping the tickles to let Itto breathe.

“Heheheh…! Hehe~…! H-He tries…” Itto replied, panting between giggles.

“Oh really?”

“Y-Yeah… heh… s-sometimes, he-.. *huff*… makes me say “please” and “thank you”… n whatever…” Itto said, missing his bro.

“Mhm? Does he have to put *this* much effort into that?” Zhongli said, emphasising his question by tickling Itto’s sides.

“Eep! N-Nohohoho! Nohot reheheally!” Itto replied, deciding to cover his ribs instead of his sides.

“I see. Then, how about surrendering?”

“Hehehe! I-I’d rahahather dihihihie!” Itto was dramatic like that, over-exaggerating often.

“Oh. Well, I suppose we’ll be here all day then.” Zhongli said, before taking Itto’s wrists and trying to pin them above his head. Itto gasped and put up resistance, straining to pull his arms down.

“D-Don’t you dare!” he growled, trying to keep his arms down, but Zhongli was still stronger, managing to win their brief and unfair arm wrestling match.

“Quite stubborn, aren’t you?”

“I’m tryina survive, dude!”

“Then surrender. There’s still a spot I haven’t tried yet…” Zhongli said, holding Itto’s hands above his head with one hand, which was kinda hard with those spiky bracelets he wore. Even so, he tried keeping them there by his forearms.

Itto’s heart sank when he realized which spot he meant, and the fear showed on his face.

“Ah, it’s a bad one, huh?” Zhongli asked.

“Y-Yeah, you could say that…” Itto said nervously, trying to free himself.

“So will you surrender?” Zhongli asked, lightly tickling Itto’s waist as his hand slowly moved up.

“N-No! I-! Pfft!”

“You haven’t got much time~”

“Fuhuhuck..!” Itto knew damn well he wouldn’t survive if he let Zhongli tickle his armpit, even if it was just one. He’d simply die right then and there…

“Almost…” Zhongli’s hand was getting closer. Too close for Itto’s comfort. He couldn’t take it.

“Agh, okay okay!! I yield, I yield!! I-I surrender! I give up! You win! J-Just let me go!” he blurted out, and Zhongli smirked and let him go as promised, moving to stand up.

“Ah. Was that so hard?” Zhongli teased, looking down at the oni, who laid on his side now.

“Haha… g-geez, man…” Itto needed a moment to recover before looking at him again.

“Hmm, are you alright?” Zhongli asked, tilting his head.

“Heh.. y-yeah, I’m fine..” Itto said, sitting up and rubbing his eyes.

“Are you sure? I was quite evil at the end there, wasn’t I?” Zhongli said, feeling a bit guilty when he remembered the scared look on Itto’s face earlier.

“Hehe, yeah, you were! Hmph, I’m telling Ayato!” Itto said with a playful huff, crossing his arms, but his “angry” frown soon turned into a smile.

“Oh, hahaha…! He’d have my head, wouldn’t he?”

“Maybe. Pfft…” Itto snickered at the response.

“Now, need some help getting up?” Zhongli asked, moving behind him.

“Huh? Uh, I guess?”

“Alright. Hold still.”

Zhongli slipped his hands under Itto’s arms, making him yelp and tense up, before the archon lifted him up like a child, which made the grown ass oni laugh with confusion. Once he was on his feet, Zhongli let go.

“What was that for?!” Itto questioned, a silly smile on his face as he turned around to face the man.

“Eh, felt silly. Sorry about that.” Zhongli replied, smiling at him.

“Tch, you’re evil.” Itto joked.

“Indeed. But seriously, are you alright? You looked utterly terrified at the end of our, er, “combat” session.” Zhongli said, feeling a bit worried about the other.

“Pfft, I’m fine, dude! But don’t ever do that again.” Itto said, a serious look on his face. He was indeed scared for that moment, knowing he’d be severely overstimulated, and he didn’t quite trust this guy enough to let him do that yet. “Cus it’s not like I could stop you! You’re too strong!”

“Ah… I should’ve known better. Truly, I’m so sorry I made you uncomfortable. It was meant to be all fun and games, and I took it too far.” Zhongli said, apologizing as sincerely as he could, even bowing politely.

“Hehe, it’s fine, it’s chill. I’m okay, really! Just don’t pin me like that next time, alright?” Itto said, with a playful flick to Zhongli’s head.

“Ow. Hmph.” Zhongli stood up straight, and Itto snickered at his reaction. “I guess I deserved that. Though… what do you mean by ‘next time’?”

“H-Huh? What next time? I didn’t said that! I would never!” Itto said, embarrassed and crossing his arms to act tough.

“Oh, I think you did. I heard you-”

“Too bad, you think wrong! Cus I never said such a thing ever actually!”

“I heard you loud and clear, y’know.”

“You didn’t hear shit! Cus I didn’t say a word!”

“Did I read your mind, then~?”

“Shut uuuppppp!!”

“Hahahahaha..!”

“It’ll be YOU losing your shit next time! Cus I won’t fall down so easily!”

So first and foremost, we’ll start with the vs Itto dynamics. My boy has encountered all of them in my fanfics

Ayato

(Lee)

If anyone else was to tickle him, they wouldn’t get much of a reaction. But he lets himself laugh when Itto tickles him

He thinks it’s nice to let loose and let his worries melt away at the hands of Itto. It helps him relax as long as it’s gentle and playful

His laughter is full of joy and he’s really ticklish on his waist and lower back

Other spots make him chuckle or giggle beautifully

He doesn’t like to be tickled for long and will be very upset if his “stop” isn’t heard

Itto sometimes blows raspberries on him, which isn’t super effective but it does result in amused giggles

Itto is gentle with him most of the time, but also loves to make him laugh his head off by tickling his weak spots. Scribbling and squeezing work the best, and Itto always showers him with compliments:

“Your laugh is so… nice, y’know? You sound so happy!”

“Hehe! You’re very pretty~”

“Aww, your giggles are adorable!”

“Your laughter is like music to my ears…”

“Kitchy kitchy coo~ haha!”

(Ler)

He’s the biggest tease to ever exist, stopping at nothing to make Itto blush like a tomato

Bullies the shit outta him like ???

«EHEHEHAHAHA!! IT TICKLES!!» “Aww, I know, darling.. I know.”

“Oh dear, is this a bad spot~?”

“My, my, you sure are fiesty, hehe~”

“Tickle tickle tickle~”

He’s a gentle but merciless tickler (unless you’re Itto; he will dig into your ribs)

He pays close attention to Itto’s facial expressions while tickling him silly, to make sure he doesn’t overdo it

“Sounds like you’re enjoying yourself, hehe~”

“Are you having fun, dear?”

He’ll sometimes tickle Itto to cheer him up. First he asks him to smile. If he can’t smile, or if his smile isn’t happy enough, Ayato hugs and tickles him to help him “recover”

“Aw, there’s that smile! You’re so beautiful, honey…”

Will deliver several kisses, nuzzles, nibbles and raspberries with no shyness whatsoever

He has a really mean method of tickling, where he’ll hold one of Itto’s horns to keep his head still and tickle his neck, under his chin, his jaw or (especially) his ears

He may also hold both horns in place to kiss all over his face and nibbling his jaw

It doesn’t last very long usually, since Itto prefers to move freely while getting tickled. Otherwise he’ll get really upset

Gorou

(Lee)

He is extremely ticklish and squirms like crazy to escape

The only one he trusts to tickle him is Itto, because he knows he won’t kill him, y’know?

Since he’s such a cutie patootie, his most ticklish area is his tummy

He both loves and hates being tickled at the same time

Though he does sometimes want Itto to tickle him. The most common thing he does to communicate this is to lie down face-up across his lap and stare into his soul

His laughter gets louder and higher in pitch the worse it tickles, also squealing and kicking a lot

Itto loves to tickle and tease him:

“Aww! Who’s a good boy? Haha!”

“You’re so cute!”

“Tickle tickle tummy~!”

Itto always keeps an eye on his tail and face to make sure he’s not in distress

Gorou wags his tail like crazy when he gets tickled, especially on his tummy even though it kills him lmao

His face gets red every time Itto teases him and/or tickles him gently

Itto often cuddles him really close before tickling and blowing raspberries on his tum

He gets all of the kisses, nibbles, nuzzles and raspberries!

He can’t take it for very long unless it’s soft and playful

Can’t win a tickle fight to save his life

Itto is mean sometimes, pinning Gorou’s arms above his head for the sake of bullying. This doesn’t last too long though, but it makes him shriek and squeal

(Ler)

He’s often too shy to tickle Itto, but he’ll learn

He’s also nervous to do so because he knows he’ll get revenge

However, Itto sometimes annoys him on purpose to get tickled, provoking him into starting a tickle fight

Gorou likes to mercilessly nuzzle him, to show affection and to tickle him at the same time. It’s great because Itto barely fights back against it

He can use his tail to tickle too

His tickling is rutheless if he’s annoyed enough, making Itto laugh his head off until he apologizes

Otherwise his tickling is very playful

Thoma

(Lee)

Thoma is very ticklish, he’s a little embarrassed about it

He laughs and giggles a lot when he gets tickled

He runs out of breath pretty quickly though, so tickles don’t last very long without breaks

His giggles are simply adorable and his laughter can heal any soul

Itto has the upper hand since he’s got the claws™️

Ayato sometimes tickles him too, usually starting off gentle before suddenly switching to rougher tickles, making the poor man laugh hysterically

Sometimes he teams up with Ayaka to destroy him, which is a fun game they’ve played since they were younger

One must be gentle to avoid tiring him

(Ler)

He’s very gentle and kind

“Are you alright?”

“Is this ok?”

“Should I stop?”

“Are you having fun?”

“Tickle tickle!”

Won’t tickle for very long unless told otherwise

Doesn’t tickle hard unless Itto “isn’t laughing enough” (he gets more mischievous when Itto is his target)

Will use tickling to cheer him up

Because he’s so gentle, he can tickle someone for ages without exhausting them as much

Thoma is the only one able to convince Itto to raise his arms while tickling him, but Itto would rather die than admit it to anyone

He’s too nice to dig into Itto’s armpits without warning, so he just lightly scribbles instead to test his endurance (it still makes him laugh a lot though)

Sara

(Lee)

Oh she HATES being tickled

She’ll only ever accept soft tickles from Itto

She’d kill him if he tried to tickle her more than that (aka tickle him to tears)

He always respects her boundaries and does his best to make sure she’s comfy and happy

Though there are times where he tries to tickle her more to make her laugh for a few seconds

It’s a bad idea every single time and always results in revenge tickles

She doesn’t mind him being silly like that, even though it gets on her nerves

She’s too embarrassed to show her unfiltered laughter

(Ler)

If Itto has made his death wish, aka tickled Sara more than gently, she’ll quickly turn the tables

She’s strong enough to wrestle and hold him down

She shows no mercy with her revenge tickles, which often leads to the poor oni howling and flailing with laughter

She likes to tickle him because he’s adorable so like what else is she supposed to do

But also he’s annoying sometimes and tickling the attitude out of him works

She can barely comprehend how he somehow manages to have fun despite being “punished”

She’s strong enough to temporarily hold one arm above his head to commit murder (aka tickle his armpit)

She can also use any of her fallen feathers to tickle him with, or straight up use her wings depending on their positions

If they’re both merely chilling, she’ll sometimes plant ticklish kisses on Itto’s neck to make him giggle

It was time for bed and Gorou was very sleepy. The only problem was that Itto wasn’t. He was full of energy and claimed to not need sleep yet, but this wasn’t unusual. Gorou knew he’d calm down enough to go to sleep eventually, so he wasn’t concerned. All they needed to do was snuggle real close and drift off to dream land.

Itto had his eye mask ready on his forehead, waiting for Gorou to come cuddle. After the general had changed into his pajamas, he turned the lights off, crawled onto his partner and laid his head on his chest, snuggling up real close and listening to his heartbeat. Itto wrapped his arms and a blanket around his beloved boyfriend, playfully nuzzling the top of his head and giggling to himself. He was always excited to spend some snuggle-time with his beloved warrior.

“Are you comfy?” Itto asked, kissing his head.

“Hmm... yeah. You’re so warm…” Gorou replied, softly nuzzling into him and happily wagging his tail.

“Mm... so are you. You’re like… really snuggly. Your hair is so soft…” Itto held him closer and nuzzled his head more, filling his cuddles with more love and affection.

“Hehe, thanks. You’re very comfy...” Gorou smiled, reaching up to gently scratch Itto’s head before nuzzling his chest. The two cuddled like this for quite a while, ready to fall asleep at any moment… until Gorou felt a weird sensation in his ear, making it flick on reflex.

“Huh… hey… don’t do that…” Gorou said sleepily.

“What?” Itto replied, resting his chin on Gorou’s head. Then, he felt the same sensation again.

“Hey! Do not.” Gorou complained, flicking his ear twice.

“What?? I’m just breathing.” Itto replied with a giggle. Turns out he was gently blowing air at Gorou’s ears without permission, because he thought the way they twitched was funny.

“Itto! It tickles! Stop it!” Gorou protested, holding his giggles in.

“Hehehehe, so cute…” the oni replied, blowing air yet again.

“Grrr… leave my ears alone!” Gorou whined, finally covering his ears to prevent that ticklish feeling.

“Hahahaha! You’re adorable!” Itto laughed and hugged him close in response. “Aww~ Is someone angy?” He said in a silly voice, gently rocking his beloved left and right.

“Pfft.. shut up. Stop blowing on my ears! I’m trying to sleep…” Gorou complained with a frown.

“Ah, alright, fine. I’ll stop, hehe!” Itto replied with a chuckle, kissing him on the forehead. “Can I rub your ears though? You like that, right?”

“Oh! Uh… s-sure. G-Go ahead.” Gorou replied, shyly accepting the headpats and ear rubs while wagging his tail.

“Aww, you’re so cute~! Who’s a good boy?” Itto teased, gently squishing Gorou’s face and giggling at his cuteness.

“Hngh.. d-don’t say that!” He whined and buried his face into Itto’s chest, feeling embarrassed.

“Hehehe! You’re so adorable! Have I ever mentioned how fluffy you are?” Itto said, basically massaging Gorou’s ears and head at this point.

It felt amazing… Itto was a headpat expert. He had tons of experience with petting dogs, cats, Ushi and even humans. That and as a fellow headpat enjoyer, he knew exactly how they should feel for maximum relaxation. After a while though, Gorou asked him to stop because his ears were getting overstimulated. So instead, they returned to soft snuggles. Itto started gently and slowly scratching Gorou’s back. The tingles felt so relaxing that he could fall asleep any second… until another strange sensation took place on his ear.

“Mmh… Itto...” Gorou groaned sleepily. What was he doing now..?

“Hm? What’s up, pup?” Itto asked quietly.

“What are you doing..?” He was getting annoyed with these antics now.

“Just having a midnight snack.” Itto had started gently nibbling on the doggos left ear for the funny.

“It’s not even midnight…” He tried to flick his ear away, but… couldn’t? “Wha…? Hey!”

Itto was holding the doggy general’s ear stuck in a nibble, playfully giggling with his mouth closed. Gorou rolled his eyes. “Ha ha, very funny. Let go!” he said, gently trying to pull away.

“M-m.” Saying ‘Nuh-uh’ wasn’t possible without opening his mouth, but Gorou understood it anyway. Itto thought this was hilarious!

“It’s not funny! Ooh, I’ll give you something to laugh at!” He growed, swiftly unleashing a playful punishment.

“Mhmhmhmhm-hmhmhmhm!! Mhmhmhehehahahahaha!! W-Wait nohohohoho!!” Gorou successfully freed his ear by tickling the oni’s sides, making him open his mouth to laugh out loud.

“This is what you get for all that mischief!” he said, scribbling all over Itto’s sides and ribs.

“Hehehehehehahahahaha! I’m sorry!! I’m sorrehehehehee!!”

“No you aren’t! You do this almost every night!” Gorou exclaimed. He actually didn’t mind it that much, but this was a good excuse to tickle his beloved oni and admire that beautiful smile of his.

“Hahahaha!! I-hehehe! I mehehean it thihis tihihihime! EEK! Nohohot thehehehere!!” Itto squeaked, giggling his head off and squirming.

“You say that every time!” Gorou started playfully vibrating his fingers into his lower ribs. Itto’s squirming quickly grew as he threw his head back to laugh louder. That’s when his eye mask slipped down over his eyes, which made the tickling feel worse.

“BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! IHIHI- PFFWAHAHAHAHAHA!! I really mean it this time!! PlehehEHEHEHAHAHA!!” Itto managed to get a quick sentence in before being interrupted by his own laughter.

“Ugh, you say that every time too. Boooo, get new material!” Gorou taunted playfully, moving his hands up to poke and tickle Itto’s upper ribs.

“Eehehehehahahaha!! Ihihi can’t help ihihihit!” he giggled, trying to defend himself.

“You’d best behave yourself, or else you’re in for more tickles!” Gorou said, playfully clawing at Itto’s abs and tum, making him wheeze and laugh louder while playfully kicking his legs.

“Will you behave? Hmmm~?” Gorou gently scratched at his bellybutton.

“EEK!! NAHAHAHAHAHA- *hic* N-NAHAHAHAT THEHEHEHERE!!” Itto squealed and shook his head on reflex.

“Tickle tickle tickle~” Gorou teased, moving back to playfully dig below the oni’s ribs before blowing a raspberry in the middle of his abs.

“SHIHIHIHIHIHIHIT- *hic* AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! STAHAHAHAHAP!!”

“Whoa!” Itto squirmed so much it was getting hard for Gorou to stay on top, so he stopped tickling to keep himself balanced. But once it stopped, Itto quickly calmed down to a giggling mess rather than an earthquake, moving his eye mask back up to defend himself better.

“Will you behave now, you big goofball?” Gorou asked, playfully poking over and over at random spots.

“Ack-! Ehehehehehehehehe!! Nohohoho!!” Itto began giggling like a maniac at the random sensations, trying to grab the general’s wrists. Unfortunately, he’d had his hand-eye coordination tickled out of him, so he couldn’t quite reach.

“No? That’s too bad… I’ll have to go for more drastic measures then!” Gorou saw his opportunity and quickly jabbed his hands into Itto’s armpits, trapping them under his arms and making him yelp loudly.

“Will you behave now?” Gorou asked, holding his hands still.

“EEK! OKOKOKOK I’ll behahahave! I swear! I’m sohorrehehehehehe!!” Itto said through his frantic giggling, squeezing his eyes shut.

“Reeeaally? Hmm, are you sure~?” Gorou teased. For once it was his turn to be in charge…

“Yehehehes!! Yes I’m sure! Plehehease!! A-Anywhere but there!” Itto pleaded, giggling desperately. “I-I’ll leave your ears alone, I promise!”

Although winning like this was a lot of fun, Gorou decided to show mercy and stop tickling. “Oh, alright, fine. I guess I’ll spare you this time. Gimmie my hands back!” He said, pulling his hands out after Itto loosened up, still giggling a lot. Then, Gorou playfully nuzzled and kissed him all over his face before laying back down and lovingly snuggling up to him.

“Did you have fun, sweetheart?” Gorou asked, smiling and booping his nose. He looked so adorable, he thought, holding his face for a moment to give him a kiss.

“Yeheah… hehehe… that tickled..!” Itto giggled, catching his breath. His cheeks were flushed red from all that.

“I know, hehe! I’m still surprised you can squeal like that.” Gorou teased, giving his boyfriend a cheeky grin.

“Wha- Huh?! Excuse me? I don’t squeal!” Itto protested, feeling an embarrassed blush coming.

“Yes you do, I heard it!” Gorou replied with a laugh, gently nuzzling his neck.

“Pfft- n-no I don’t! I would never!” Itto scoffed and looked away stubbornly. How dare this little guy make such a claim about the one and oni?

“Oh really? Hmm…”

“Yeah, really- wh..?”

Gorou slipped the eye mask down…

“Hey! I can’t seEEEEHEHEHEHE!!”

…and blew a raspberry on his neck while tickling his ear.

“Ahahahahaha!! Come ohohon! I wasn’t ready!”

“What was that noise?” Gorou teased, gently tickling both ears while uncontrollable, high pitched giggles poured out of the oni.

“Eeheeheheehehe!! Not the ears!” Itto squeaked, trying to cover his ticklish ears.

“‘Ooh I don’t squeal’ he says…” Gorou taunted, quickly scribbling over Itto’s now exposed armpits, which did in fact result in a surprised squeal as he clamped his arms down.

“Hehe, you liar~” He said, kissing his beloved on the cheek.

“Th-That doesn’t count! I wasn’t ready!” Itto moved his eye mask back up so he could see.

“Ok, what if I prepare you then~?” Gorou grinned with mischief.

“Three…” Gorou wiggled his fingers around above Itto.

“What- wahahait..!” Itto began giggling nervously.

“Two…”

“Dohohon’t..!” He couldn’t tell what his next move would be!

“One!” Gorou quickly poked Itto’s bellybutton, resulting in another surprised squeal.

“EEP!! Hahahahahaha! Stop tickling me!!” Itto blushed with embarrassment, still refusing to accept that he, of all people oni, just made that noise. He would never!

“Hehehe, you’re like a squeaky toy!” Gorou exclaimed, giggling at how adorable Itto was and gently squishing his face.

“I- wha- s-squeaky toy?!” He could mot believe his ears!

“Yeah! You’re so cute~ Hahaha!”

“Who are you calling a squeaky toy?! How dare you?” Itto questioned, sitting up dramatically and glaring at Gorou. He seemed mad.

“Aha, I-Itto, my love, I was just joking! No need to get ‘angy’ now…” Gorou booped his nose, instantly regretting his taunts. Oh, he shouldn’t have done that…

“Oohohoho, that’s it! You’re in BIG trouble now!” He grabbed his wrist.

“Whah-? AAH!” Itto playfully wrestled Gorou off of himself, turning the tables by pinning him down, with a mischievous grin on his face.

“Wahahait! Wait!! Ittohoho dohohon’t!!” Gorou pleaded as Itto pinned his arms above his head, rendering him giggly and helpless.

“Did you really think I’d let you get away with that? Huh?!” Itto growled, playfully faking his so-called anger with an obvious smile on his face, and teasingly moving Gorou’s shirt up to reveal his tummy.

“AAH!! W-Wahahait! N-Not there!! Plehehehehease!” Gorou squirmed, trying his hardest to pull his arms back down, fearing the ticklish assault that would come.

“Yes there~ hehe! What do you have to say for yourself, pup?” Itto held his hand above Gorou’s tummy, wiggling his fingers and grinning with mischief.

“EEK!! Wahahahait!! Dohohon’t!! I’m sorry!! Forgive mehehehe!!” Gorou pleaded, giggling excitedly and wagging his tail uncontrollably.

“Hmm, not a very convincing plea. Hehe, you’re about to be destroyed!” Itto said, giggling to himself. His boyfriend was so cute! “I’m gonna get you~”

“Nononononohohoho!! Wahahahahait!!” Gorou couldn’t contain himself as those pesky fingers began wiggling faster and inching closer. It’s like he could feel the tickling already!

“Hahahaha! Why are you laughing so much? I’m not even touching you yet! You’re so silly~” Itto teased, laughing along and smiling brightly.

“Plehehehehease!! Dohohon’t tehehease!!” Gorou whined, feeling his face heat up.

“Hehe, why not? Are you ticklish? Hmm?” He began moving his hand around in circles above his giggling boyfriend, wiggling his fingers around to tease the rest of him as well.

“Ihihihittohohoho!!” Gorou wasn’t strong enough to pull his arms down, so he could neither protect his tum nor cover his blushing face. His squirms and laughter increased whenever that darn hand came closer.

“Is youw wittle tummy ticklish? Aww, so cute~ I wonder what would happen if I tickled it~” Itto cooed, choosing to murder the poor general with silly baby-talk.

“Itto plehehehease!! No more!!” Gorou cried, trying very hard to hide his face and failing to keep his wagging tail still. That teasing was unbearable! Oh Archons, how embarrassing…

“Hehehe… fine, fine, any last words~?” Itto asked menacingly, pausing his hand for a moment. The anticipation was certainly funny to watch.

“WAHAHAIT!! Plehehehease!! I’m sohohorry!!” Gorou was already squirming like crazy to escape, but to no avail.

“Hmm, maybe I can forgive you. But the tickle monster won’t! Imma getcha! Mwahahaha!” Itto wiggled his fingers again to bully the giggling general some more.

“NAHAHAHAHAHAHAA!! IHIHI’M SOHOHOHRREEHEHEHEHEHEHEE!!” Gorou’s pleas got interrupted by loud squeals of laughter as Itto’s hand finally descended onto his tummy, playfully and quickly scribbling around all over the place. He made sure not to tickle too hard.

“Whoops! My hand slipped! Hehehe, tickle tickle tickle!” Itto teased, giggling along with Gorou’s hysteria.

“AAAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! PLEHEHEHEASE!! IHIHIT TIHIHICKLEHEHEHES!!” Gorou squealed, kicking uncontrollably and squirming wildly, wagging his tail at the speed of light.

“Aww, is the wittle doggy general a wittle ticklish? That’s so cute! Kitchy kitchy kitchy kitchy koo~” Itto teased, playfully tickling on Gorou’s bellybutton. Who knew being evil on purpose could be so much fun?

“AHAHEEHEHEHAHA!!! NAHAHAT THEHEHEHERE!!!” Gorou bucked his hips as much as he could, but couldn’t escape those vicious claws.

“Hehehe, I see that tail waggin’~! You’re having fun, aren’t you? Aren’t you~?” Itto teased and slowed down to light tickling so Gorou could answer properly.

“Ehehehehehehe! Plehehease! It tickles!!” He squeaked, giggling his adorable head off and dodging the question.

“Aww! You’re so cute! Hehe, I’m not done with you yet~” Itto teased, booping Gorou’s nose.

“W-Wahahahait!!” The general got really nervous once Itto’s face changed from silly smiles to a devious grin.

“Heheheh… tickletickletickletickle!”

“EEEEAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA!!”

Itto suddenly let go of Gorou’s wrists and began tickling his tummy again, using both hands to quickly scribble around while Gorou’s squeals of laughter returned.

“Who’s the squeaky toy now, huh?” Itto teased, giggling to himself as Gorou failed to protect his sensitive tum.

“EEEHEHEHEHAHAHAHA!! I’M SOHOHORRHEEHEHEHEHE!!”

“Hehehe! You’re so ticklish! It’s so cute… Hmm… how ‘bout that midnight snack?” Itto said with a smile before leaning in to lovingly nuzzle and nibble on Gorou’s tum, using his hands to hold his hips in place.

“You’re so cute I could eat you up~!” he said adoringly.

“EEK!! N-Not thahahahahat!! EEHEEHEE!!”

“Grr! The tickle monster is hungry!” Itto teased, playfully nibbling on Gorou’s ribs and tum, making him squeal.

“PLEHEHEHEASE!! It’s sohohOHO BAHAHAHAHAD!!”

“Om nom nom nom! Mmm! Yummy!” Itto teased, giggling before playfully blowing raspberries on him while gently tickling his sides.

“AAAIIEEHEHEHEHEHEE!!! NAHAHAT THAHAHAHAT!!” Gorou screeched, squirming and flailing like crazy under his boyfriend’s tickles.

“Yes that~ hehehe!” Itto replied, inhaling and blowing more raspberries on him for the funny.

“WAAHAHAHAHAHAHAAA!! *hic* M-MEHEHEHERCYHEHE!! MERCY!!!” Gorou screamed through his wild laughter, grabbing Itto’s horns to pull his head away from himself.

“Ow! Ow- ow ow-! Hey!” Itto stopped tickling and grabbed Gorou’s wrists so he’d let go.

“Plehehehehease!! No mohohohore!! I can’t breathe!” Gorou pleaded, giggling his head off and trying to catch his breath. He’d reached his limit, the poor thing. His tail was still wagging, though.

“Aw, alright, alright. I’ll give you a break! Hehe, sorry, pup. Are you alright?” Itto replied, letting go of his wrists and giving him soft belly rubs and headpats as rewards for surviving, and to help get rid of the leftover tingles.

“Ahahehe… haha… he…! Wahahait a sehehec…!”

“It’s okay, pup. You can breathe aaallll you want. Hehe, who’s a good boy?” Itto said, petting him more to help him calm down.

“Wh-?! Hehehe...! H-How dare you..?” Gorou whined, blushing and covering his face in embarrassment. He was still full of leftover giggles from all that tickling.

“Hahahahaha! Sorry, pup. Just messing with ya. You took all that like a champ!” Itto replied, gently squishing the general’s face. “You’re so cute!! I love you~” he said, kissing his forehead.

“Hehehe… love you too, hehe...” Gorou blushed. He felt so loved… and so happy…

“Do you need some water, sweetie?” Itto asked, gently stroking his cheek.

“Y-Yes, please...”

“Don’t you worry, lil’ guy! I’ll be right back!” Itto said with a smile, ruffling Gorou’s hair before leaving to fetch him something to drink. When Itto came back, Gorou had caught his breath and calmed down, sitting up to accept the glass of water while wagging his tail.

“Are you alright, pup?” Itto asked,

“Hehe.. yeah, I’m alright. Thank you.”

“I’m glad you had fun, haha! Hehe, can I kiss you, you cutie pie?” Itto asked playfully.

“O-Oh- uh- um… s-sure...” Gorou was too shy to answer properly. Itto smiled and gave him a lil’ kiss on the forehead. Then he kissed him on the cheek. Then the other, making sure to go “mwwah!” every time. Multiple soft kisses for the little warrior, all over his face!

“Aww, you like that?” Itto asked with a big smile, which made Gorou blush like a cherry.

“Uh- I- u-um-” he struggled to reply properly, opting to hide his face instead. Itto laughed in response and pulled him into a tight hug.

“Itto... I’m really tired… can we please go to sleep now?” Gorou asked, yawning and rubbing his eyes.

“Wha? Already? But.. we ca-..” Before he could protest, he was interrupted by a big yawn, too. They are contagious, after all.

“Yes, already, silly...” Gorou said sleepily, booping the oni’s nose again and softly giggling at the expression he made. “Come on, let’s snuggle…” he said, laying down.

“Suuuure, let’s snuggle!” Itto responded with a playful smirk and laid down on top of his boyfriend, covering them both with a blanket.

“Ah..! I-Itto! Y-You’re too heavy!” Gorou said, squirming in that snuggle trap. They’d both forgotten how heavy Itto was in comparison.

“Hey, you wanted me to come cuddle...” Itto said, playfully nuzzling the general’s neck.

“Eep! Th-That tickles!” Gorou squeaked, giggling and weakly trying to push Itto’s head away.

“Mm... you’re warm...” Itto replied sleepily. He sorta didn’t seem to be tickling on purpose this time, but kept nuzzling anyway to show affection.

“Ehehehe! G-Get ohohoff..!” Gorou whined, mercilessly poking and scribbling at Itto’s sides and waist in retaliation.

“EhehHEEHE! WheHEhehey!! EheheHehehEHEH!” The oni wasn’t able to stay on top for very long as Gorou was determined to tickle him away. “EhEHEhe! StohOHOHOhop! I’ll get ohohoff!” Itto giggled and rolled to the side, feeling too sleepy for a second round.

“Phew… y-you’re a little too big for that…” Gorou said, stretching before turning on his side.

“Hehe… nah, you’re just tiny.” Itto replied, stretching as well before wrapping his arms around his beloved boyfriend from behind, being the big spoon for their sleepy cuddles. Itto held him close in a warm, loving embrace and nuzzled his head.

“Hehehe! Teeny tiny little man~!” Itto had just found The funniest joke of all time, apparently.

“Oh, quiet with you.” Gorou replied, playfylly trying to cover Itto’s mouth. “Stop laughing! It’s not funny!” he said, starting to giggle as well.

“Hehehehehahaha!” Unfortunately for both of them, because Itto was so sleepy, he couldn’t stop giggling at the phrase “teeny tiny” for a solid two minutes, accidentally bringing Gorou down with him. But once their giggling fits had finally died down, they could resume their warm snuggles as if (almost) nothing happened. Gorou’s cheeks hurt from smiling so much…

“Good night, Itto... you big goober…”

“Hehehe… good night, Gorou…”

“Sleep well, my love~” Gorou reached back to try to stroke his cheek.